Prostate cancer deaths attributable to night shift work, Catalonia (Spain) 2012-2022

Abstract

Introduction: Prostate cancer is one of the most common neoplasms. Among modifiable risk factors, night shift work (NSW) stands out and has been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a probable human carcinogen (Group 2A). Although the available evidence suggests a weak association, several systematic reviews indicate an increased risk with prolonged exposure. The aim was to estimate the number of prostate cancer deaths among men in Catalonia attributable to NSW, and the potential years of life lost due to this risk factor.

Method: Prostate cancer mortality attributable to night shift work in Catalonia between 2012 and 2022 was estimated. The population attributable fraction (PAF) was calculated using risk estimates from the literature and Levin’s equation. Crude mortality rates and potential years of life lost were calculated. ata were obtained from official mortality registries.

Results: between 2012 and 2022, 9259 deaths from prostate cancer were recorded in Catalonia, with a crude mortality rate of 22.62 per 100,000 inhabitants. An estimated 432,96 deaths were attributable to NSW, representing 4.7% of total prostate cancer deaths. Most attributable deaths occurred in men aged over 70 years, while 27.2% of the potential years of life lost were observed in the 50–59-year age group.

Conclusions: Identifying NSW as a risk factor and estimating its PAF provide valuable evidence for the development of preventive occupational health policies. Health promotion and targeted health surveillance among exposed workers may contribute to reducing prostate cancer morbidity and mortality and improving the quality of life of exposed workers.