Hormonal

Long-term exposure to rotating night shifts (≥30 years) is associated with a statistically significant increase in breast cancer risk in women, primarily mediated by the suppression of melatonin due to nighttime light exposure.

If you work rotating night shifts, especially for many years, your risk of breast cancer may be moderately higher. This is likely because light at night suppresses melatonin, a hormone that may protect against cancer. While you may not be able to change your job, consider strategies to minimize light exposure during night hours (like wearing an eye mask) and discuss your work history with your doctor to ensure appropriate screening.