How the body’s internal clock influences sleep, wakefulness, and health, related to shift work disorder

An estimated 15 to 25% of the U.S. labor force works non-traditional shifts that may disrupt their circadian rhythm.

• Non-traditional work schedules can lead to disruptions in the body's natural biological clock.
• These disruptions are associated with a sleep disorder known as shift work disorder.
• Shift work disorder is characterized by insomnia during necessary sleep times and excessive sleepiness during waking hours.
• There is a need for more information on how circadian rhythms affect human functioning and the pathophysiology of shift work disorder.
• Increased awareness could help clinicians recognize and diagnose shift work disorder more effectively.

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