Perils of graveyard shift

Night shift work is strenuous, but the potential health problems, such as obesity and cardiovascular disease, may be much bigger than previously thought, according to a recent study.

The study conducted by Harvard University in Boston and published in the online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences revealed a higher risk of diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease among night shift workers.

Blood levels of leptin were down, which increases obesity risk in the long term, the report said. Other symptoms included a higher level of the stress hormone cortisol and higher blood pressure.