Value your body clock - Study associates frequent disruptions in circadian rhythm with a 70 per cent higher risk of cancer

New Delhi: Sleep is one of the most important factors of wellness – yet the most underrated one. Little do people realise how seven to eight hours of sleep in a day can work wonders not just in the short run in the long term as well – from weight management to insulin sensitivity to blood pressure and visceral fat levels. But the body clock plays a way more crucial role than what one perceives – also known as the circadian rhythm, the biological clock refers to the sleep-wake cycle and according to experts, it could impact cancer risk as well, that too, by 70 per cent.

According to a new study, disruptions in the circadian rhythm could be associated with cancer-related genes. The disruptions are more likely to make night shift workers or night owls more prone to DNA damage due to delayed repair mechanisms.

How does body clock affect cancer risk?

Several studies have evaluated and stated how working in night shifts can result in insomnia or sleep disorders or overeating tendencies, irritability and now cancer. Research associates disturbed body clock with a 68 per cent higher risk of cancer – the study appeared in Science Advances journal and for this, experts evaluated lung cancer prevalence in animals.

The HSF1 group of proteins were found to be a culprit in this and was shown to increase the risk of tumour formation in various models of cancer. However, this is the first time that a link as such was established.

What is the role of HSF1 proteins?

HSF1 proteins ensure that all proteins are made correctly when placed in extremely stress conditions such as climate change. Experts theorised that HSF1 activity in response to disturbances in body clock because changes in sleep cycles can interfere with the daily body rhythm.

Normally, the body’s temperature changes by one to two degrees while sleeping, but night shift workers do not experience that which further contributes to dysregulation in the body. Experts suspect that cancer cells exploit the HSF1 proteins and trigger mutation.

How to reset the body clock?

According to the Sleep Foundation, humans feel sleepy at night and wakeful during the day because of the way the body perceives light. To reset the body clock, one can try to reduce light exposure at night, control coffee intake and keep all electronic devices and screens at bay to sleep well.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.