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Night Shift Linked to Cancer

Idea once dismissed as 'wacky' gaining acceptance

By Nick McMaster,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 29, 2007 7:43 PM CST
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(Newser) – Working the night shift might increase your risk of getting cancer, an international health agency says. That theory has been percolating for decades, but it will gain credence next month when the WHO declares night work a probable carcinogen, the AP reports. The designation, likely to be followed by the American Cancer Association, will put working at night into the company of UV radiation and anabolic steroids.

Studies have found an increase in breast cancer for women and prostate cancer for men among late-shift workers. Explanations are elusive, but most theories revolve around the disruption of the body's circadian rhythm and the mysterious healing properties of a good night's sleep. "The balance between light and dark is very important for your body," said one expert. 

The American Cancer Society said it would most likely add shift work to its list of known and probable carcinogens at the next scheduled update.
The American Cancer Society said it would most likely add shift work to its list of "known and probable carcinogens" at the next scheduled update.   (Index Open)
In an idea first dismissed as ludicrous in the 1980s, scientists are starting to believe that working a late shift might raise the risk of cancer.
In an idea first dismissed as ludicrous in the 1980s, scientists are starting to believe that working a late shift might raise the risk of cancer.   (Shutterstock.com)
A theory initially dismissed as foolish suggests that working at night may raise the risk of cancer.
A theory initially dismissed as foolish suggests that working at night may raise the risk of cancer.   (Index Open)
Several studies have found that women working at night for many years are more prone to breast cancer, and that men may be at higher risk of prostate cancer.
Several studies have found that women working at night for many years are more prone to breast cancer, and that men may be at higher risk of prostate cancer.   ((c) redjar)
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cancer • carcinogens • World Health Organization • night work • International Agency for Research on Cancer

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