Association Between Types of Shift Work and Physical Health Symptoms, Including Musculoskeletal Symptoms and Sleep Disturbance: Evidence From the Seventh Korean Working Conditions Survey.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the associations between different types of shift work and health symptoms, including musculoskeletal symptoms and sleep disturbances, among South Korean workers.

METHODS

Data from 43,011 participants in the Seventh Korean Working Conditions Survey were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each shift type.

RESULTS

Rotating shift work was significantly associated with low back pain (aOR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.13-1.52), upper extremity pain (aOR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.14-1.51), and waking up exhausted (aOR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.20-1.64). Fixed shift workers had increased risks of anxiety (aOR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.33-2.34) and depression (aOR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.50-2.86).

CONCLUSIONS

Rotating and fixed shift types are associated with adverse health outcomes. These findings support the need for shift type-specific occupational health interventions and policy responses.