Shifts with Nights and Migraine Prevalence Among Nurses: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Highlights What are the main findings? In a nurse-specific systematic review and meta-analysis (4 observational studies; total N = 3843, analyzable N = 3323), night-inclusive schedules (fixed nights and/or rotating shifts including nights) were not associated with a statistically significant difference in 1-year migraine prevalence versus day-only/non-night schedules (pooled PR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.82–1.10; I2 = 0%). Secondary night-work intensity comparisons were inconclusive (high vs. low: PR = 1.24, 95% CI 0.46–3.36; high vs. zero nights: PR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.38–1.93), with non-harmonized exposure thresholds and few contributing studies limiting precision and consistency. What are the implications of the main findings? Current nurse-specific evidence does not support strong conclusions or roster-policy recommendations based on migraine prevalence alone, because the evidence base is small, mostly cross-sectional, and relies on heterogeneous exposure definitions and crude PRs. Future research should use prospective designs that distinguish fixed night work from rotating-with-nights schedules and measure shift-pattern features (e.g., irregularity, quick returns, consecutive nights), while assessing sleep/circadian mediators and migraine outcomes beyond prevalence (incidence, attack frequency, chronification, disability, medication use). Abstract Background: Fixed night work and rotating schedules including nights may contribute to migraine via sleep disruption and circadian…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis. 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: 3,843 participants or records.
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