More dire long-term consequences may also be at play, according to new research on the associations between work patterns in young adulthood and health outcomes later in life. Multiple studies have shown how irregular work hours can harm overall health and social life, but the new paper views the relationship through a “life-course” approach, observing how work patterns affect health throughout adulthood instead of one point in time. Despite the challenges of today’s work schedules, health experts say there are strategies people can use to mitigate the negative impacts. Additionally, still having some kind of routine or schedule around that shift can make it easier to fit in those health-promoting activities — especially sleep, Yao added. And past research has found that refraining from eating late at night counteracts the negative effects of shift work on health, he added.

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Persons: ”, Wen, Han, ” Han, White, Xiaoxi Yao, wasn’t, Yao, ” Yao, “, Leana Wen, Wen wasn’t, Azizi Seixas, Christian Benedict, Han’s, ” Benedict, Benedict, ” Seixas Organizations: CNN, Silver School of Social, New York University, Longitudinal Survey, Mayo Clinic, “, George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health, Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Uppsala University Locations: midlife, Minnesota, Sweden