[234] - The Impact of Light at Night on Cancer Risk – What Shift Workers Need to Know
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Blue light exposure does more than delay sleep—it could be increasing your cancer risk. In this episode, we dive into how artificial light, especially from screens, reduces melatonin production, a powerful antioxidant that protects your cells from cancer.
Studies show shift workers, especially those on night shifts, have a higher risk of breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers. Women on rotating night shifts for over 30 years face a shocking 36% increased risk of breast cancer.
But there’s hope. Learn practical strategies to protect your melatonin levels:
- Create a pitch-black sleep environment: Remove even small light sources.
- Must-have tools: Discover the best sleep masks and blue-light blocking glasses.
- Workplace solutions: Push for circadian-friendly lighting during night shifts.
- Daytime light & lifestyle: Tips to regulate your body’s natural rhythms.
Your health is worth protecting—subscribe and share this life-saving info with your friends and colleagues!
References:
Melatonin and cancer risk: does light at night compromise physiologic cancer protection by lowering serum melatonin levels?
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ANNOUNCING
"The Shift Workers Collective"
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Disclaimer: Roger Sutherland is not a doctor or a medical professional. Always consult a physician before implementing any strategies mentioned in this podcast. Use of this information is strictly at your own risk. Roger Sutherland will not assume any liability for direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of the information contained in this podcast including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness, or death.
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Chapters
1. Blue Light Myths vs Cancer Reality (00:00:00)
2. Understanding Melatonin's Cancer Protection (00:05:10)
3. Cancer Risk for Shift Workers (00:08:41)
4. Strategies to Minimize Light Exposure (00:10:21)
5. Healthy Lifestyle and Workplace Advocacy (00:13:38)
6. Closing Thoughts and Call to Action (00:20:16)
242 episodes