Evaluation of metabolic syndrome and sleep quality in shift workers

Background Shift workers have risks associated with metabolic syndrome and low sleep quality. Aims This study aimed to examine metabolic syndrome and sleep quality in firefighters and mine workers working shifts and daytime hours. Methods A comparative descriptive study was conducted in two institutions on firefighters and mine workers (n = 120) who were working shifts (n = 84) and working daytime hours (n = 36). The data were obtained using a questionnaire including socio-demographic information, anthropometric measurements and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Results When risk of metabolic syndrome was compared with sleep quality, it was found that according to International Diabetes Federation criteria, 11% of those diagnosed with metabolic syndrome among shift-working firefighters and 5% of those diagnosed with metabolic syndrome among shift-working miners had low sleep quality. It was found that according to the National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III criteria, 9% of those diagnosed with metabolic syndrome among shift firefighters and 2% of those diagnosed with metabolic syndrome among shift miners had low sleep quality. Conclusions Preventive measures should be taken to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome in shift workers.