title: [Shiftwork problems].
abstract: This paper discusses the negative effects of shiftwork which are classified into four categories: biological functions, efficiency, social/family domains and health. It presents systematic review of previous studies which indicated at health problems in shiftworkers which can, at least in part, be attributed to disturbation of circadian rhythms imposed by shift/night work. Health problems which are connected with shiftwork are: sleeping problems, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular diseases, carcinoma, problems with reproductive health in women and lower levels of psychological health.The paper also discusses about shiftwork tolerance. The process model of shiftwork and health, made by Smith and his coworkers in 1999, is used as theoretical framework. An accent is put on individual and organisational factors which are important for shiftwork adaptation and tolerance. Significant predictors of shiftwork tolerance are: age, gender, morningness-eveningness, rigidity-flexibility of sleeping habits, family situation, sleep hygiene and food intake. Regarding studies which indicated important aspects of shiftwork organization, such as: number of working shifts and working hours, regularity of shifts, pace and direction of shifts' rotation, recommendations for shiftwork management are given.
mesh_terms: D002940:Circadian Rhythm; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D020178:Sleep Disorders, Circadian Rhythm; D014940:Work Schedule Tolerance / Q000502:physiology