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Relationship between shift work, night work, and headache and migraine risk: A meta-analysis of observational studies

Zhenzhi Wang, Tao Zhu, Meng Gong, Lin Yin, Hui Zheng

Sleep Medicine, 2024

422,869 participants · 6 citations

Abstract

BACKGROUND

To date, there is insufficient research on whether shift work and night work increase the risk of experiencing headaches and migraines.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the potential association between shift work, night shift work, and headache/migraine.

METHODS

We conducted a thorough search of the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases up until October 2023 to identify relevant studies. Our inclusion criteria focused on observational studies that investigated the association between shift work exposure and headache/migraine outcomes. We extracted adjusted risk estimates from each study and calculated pooled odds ratios using either fixed or random-effects models. Our methodology followed the Meta-Analysis Group guidelines for observational studies in epidemiology. To ensure accuracy and consistency, two investigators independently reviewed the retrieved records and extracted data based on the predefined inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis included a total of seven studies involving 422,869 participants. The pooled analysis revealed a significant association between shift work and an increased risk of headaches (HR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.15-1.52, P < 0.001). Specifically, individuals working night shifts had a 44% higher risk of developing headaches (HR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.09-1.90, P = 0.011). Furthermore, shift work was also found to be associated with a higher incidence of migraines (HR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.27-2.08, P < 0.001). Interestingly,…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 422,869 participants or records.

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