Evaluation of the risk of metabolic syndrome among shift workers in Tunisia.

Background: Shift work is a source of health problems for workers around the world. The metabolic syndrome is one of the pathologies that can occur because of this work pattern.

Aims: Investigate possible association between shift work and the development risk of the metabolic syndrome (MS).

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among male gender agents of company of electricity production in the Center of Tunisia. This population was divided into two groups according to the organization of their work: a group of shift workers and a group of non-shift workers. Data collection was based on a questionnaire, a clinical examination and a biological assessment. The definition of International Diabetes Federation 2005 (IDF) was adopted to retain the diagnosis of the MS.

Results: A total of 263 agents responded to our invitation with a participation rate of 65.5%. The shift workers group accounted for 48.3% of the participants and the fixed workers group accounted for 51.7% of the participants. The diagnosis of MS was retained in 51.2% of shift workers and 27.2% of non-posted workers, with a statistically significant difference (p <10). This association persisted after adjusting for the confounding variables with an OR of 2.64 [1.38-5.04].

Conclusion: Our study underlined a higher risk of MS development among shift workers. These findings highlight the importance of taking specific preventive measures. This prevention is based not only on hygieno-dietetic measures and regular physical activity, but also the improvement of working conditions.