Mood, sleep patterns and the effect of physical activity on the life quality of brazilian train operators

Objectives: Rotating or night shifts elicit rapid changes in physiology which the body cannot quickly adapt. In addition, alterations in shift work influence social and familial aspects that ultimately impact the quality of life of these workers. The purpose of this study was to evaluate mood and sleep patterns as well the effects of physical exercise on the quality of life of train operators that work in shifts. Methods: This study was performed with 336 male train operators who worked on a rotating shift in a Brazilian company. The train operators underwent a polysomnography and subjective evaluations were made through the use of the following questionnaires: quality of life, work ability index, physical activity, anxiety, depression and sleepiness. Statistical analysis was performed using linear regressions, which the SF-36 scores were used as the dependent variable, and the sleep pattern variables (REM and sleep efficacy) and the subjective variables were used as independent variables. They were all adjusted for age and body mass index. Results: Alterations in the mood profile, low work capacity, sleepiness and altered of REM sleep had a negative impact while physical exercise contributed positively to the quality of life of Brazilian shift workers. Conclusion: Shift workers with impaired mood profiles and sleep patterns have a negative impact on quality of life, in contrast to shift workers who engage in physical activity.