Investigation of the effects of work schedule on circadian rhythm, blood pressure, and physical performance by gender

Circadian rhythm is an endogenous mechanism that regulates an organism's physiological and behavioral processes in 24-hour cycles. The adverse effects of shift work on this rhythm are frequently emphasized in the literature. This study aims to compare the relationship between gender, circadian rhythm changes, and cardiovascular health parameters among shift and non-shift workers. The impact of gender and work schedule on sleep duration and cardiovascular parameters was examined in 162 participants (72 male, 90 female). While total sleep duration did not differ by gender, work schedule particularly affected men. Male shift workers had the longest total sleep duration. Women's nighttime sleep was longer than men's, whereas men slept more during the day. No gender differences were observed in blood pressure (systolic/diastolic) or exercise capacity. Work schedule showed no significant effect on cardiovascular parameters. Findings indicate that work schedule shapes sleep patterns, especially in men. Increased total sleep duration in male shift workers and women's gender-based advantage in nighttime sleep highlight the need for personalized approaches in sleep regulation