Incidence of Hypertension in Industrial Night Shift Workers

Abstract

BACKGROUND - Hypertension is a major public health concern globally, contributing significantly to the burden of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and premature mortality. Numerous occupational and lifestyle factors have been implicated in the development of high blood pressure, with night shift work emerging as a notable risk factor. Industrial workers, in particular, are often exposed to irregular schedules, extended working hours, and high-stress environments, all of which can disrupt circadian rhythms and negatively impact cardiovascular health. The misalignment between the body’s internal clock and external work demands in night shift workers leads to altered sleep patterns, hormonal imbalances, increased sympathetic activity, and metabolic disturbances, which together may elevate the risk of developing hypertension. Despite growing recognition of these risks, there remains limited region-specific data on the prevalence and incidence of hypertension among night shift workers in industrial settings. Understanding this relationship is crucial for designing effective workplace interventions and policies aimed at reducing the burden of chronic diseases among this vulnerable population.

OBJECTIVE-

1.To determine incidence of hypertension in industrial night shift workers.

1. To identify the risk factors associated with the development of hypertension in industrial night shift workers.
2. MATERIAL AND METHODOLGY- institutional protocol and ethical committee approval, vide their letter no. KVV/ IEC/01/2025 dated January 23, 2025.This cross-sectional study was conducted in Karad using a survey method over a duration of six months. The sample size was calculated using the formula n = z² × p × q / L², resulting in 150 participants, where z represents the confidence level, p the prevalence, q = 100 – p, and L the allowable error. Data collection involved a validated questionnaire (Google Form), a consent form, and the medical reports. Participants included males engaged in occupations involving night shifts. Individuals above 60 years, Individuals with history of cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease or other chronic medical condition were excluded from the study.

RESULT-Out of the 150 industrial night shift workers assessed, 50 individuals (34%) were found to have hypertension, while 97 (66%) were normotensive. The majority of hypertension-positive cases were observed in individuals aged 35–55 years, with a higher prevalence among those working night shifts for more than five years and those with a higher body mass index (BMI). Many reported associated symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and headache, particularly after consecutive night shifts. A significant number were previously unaware of their hypertensive status and often attributed symptoms to work-related stress or lack of sleep. Participants who reported maintaining regular physical activity and adherence to healthy dietary habits demonstrated a lower incidence, suggesting a protective effect.

CONCLUSION- This research found that 34% of industrial night shift workers were hypertensive. The incidence was notably higher among workers aged 35–55 years, those with more than five years of night shift employment, and individuals with a higher BMI. A considerable proportion were previously unaware of their hypertensive status, emphasizing the importance of routine health screenings in this population. Adoption of regular physical activity, healthy dietary practices, and workplace health programs may play a protective role in reducing the risk of hypertension among industrial night shift workers.