Circadian Rhythm Alteration and Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

Abstract There is growing scientific evidence that connects circadian rhythm abnormalities with cardiovascular risk factors. Due to their work schedules, shift workers are exposed to changes in their circadian rhythm that are associated with metabolic syndrome (MS). Aim: To determine the relationship between shift work and metabolic syndrome. Methodology: This is a cross-sectional observational study. The sample included 300 adult volunteers, health workers of a public hospital in the city of Riobamba, Ecuador. The diagnosis of MS was made based on the criteria bythe Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III). In addition, sleep quality was assessed through the Pittsburg sleep quality index. Cluster analysis of K-means was used to identify representative groups. In addition, chi-squared test and ANOVA were used to determine the association between variables. Results: Three conglomerates based on age and sex were established, which were numbered consecutively 1, 2 and 3. Conglomerate 1 had a statistically higher percentage of people who worked in shifts, suffered MS and had worse sleep quality than the other two conglomerates. In conclusión, shift work is related to the risk of suffering from MS and poor quality of sleep.

Keywords

• shift work, metabolic syndrome, sleep quality, k medias clusters.