Understanding the brain, genes, diagnosis, and treatment of shift work disorder

Shift work disorder affects a substantial portion of individuals working non-standard hours.

• Shift work disorder arises from a mismatch between internal body clocks and external environmental cues.
• Desynchronization of the molecular clock is linked to various physical and psychiatric health issues.
• The article reviews genetic and neurobiological factors related to shift work disorder.
• Diagnostic tools and treatment guidelines aim to address problems such as circadian misalignment and insomnia.

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