Impact of shift work on irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia

Abstract

Background: The possible association between shift work with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD) remains controversial. The purpose of the study is to conduct a meta-analysis to explore the potential association between shift work with IBS/FD. Methods: We searched relevant observational studies on Medline (PubMed) and Embase until June 30, 2021. Two different investigators extracted data and assessed the quality of each study independently. The meta-analysis was used to evaluate the pooled odds risk (OR) between shift work and IBS/FD. Results: Eight studies were included ultimately. Shift workers were more likely to suffer from IBS. The OR of shift work was 1.81 (95% confidence interval 1.42; 2.32) with low heterogeneity ( P < .05, I 2 = 0%) for IBS. However, no evidence of the association was observed between shift work and the risk of FD. The OR of shift work was 0.87 (95% confidence interval 0.62; 1.23) ( P > .05) for FD. Conclusions: There was a positive association between shift work and IBS. The prevalence of IBS was 81% higher among shift workers than among non-shift workers. Shift work was probably a risk factor for IBS. The low heterogeneity supports the reliability of the results. However, there was no significant association between shift work and FD. The strength of the evidence was limited and further prospective cohort studies were needed.

Work-related problems and the psychosocial characteristics of individuals with irritable bowel syndrome: an updated literature review

“…In a study in Saudi Arabia, freelance employees who worked for more than nine hours were more likely to have IBS [ 7 ]. One meta-analysis reported that shift work is associated with IBS [ 17 ], and another meta-analysis of healthcare professionals found that in addition to shift work, poor sleep quality and female sex were also major contributors to the presence of IBS [ 18 ]. Shift work may also contribute to circadian disturbances.…”

Psychosocial characteristics of workers with irritable bowel syndrome and its relationship with abdominal symptoms and work productivity

“… 6 , 7 , 13 , 14 The association between IBS and shift work has been previously reported, and some meta-analyses indicate a higher prevalence of IBS among shift workers. 12 , 15 Various treatments for IBS, such as medication 16 and self-management programs, including CBT, 17 can improve the work productivity of individuals with IBS.…”