Study: Melatonin Might Reduce Cancer Risk In Night Shift Workers

Do you work long hours at night? A study published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine found that taking melatonin could help night workers reduce their risk of cancer. Working at night can compromise the body’s ability to repair DNA damage, which could result in an increased risk of the disease. Participants who took melatonin contained 80% higher 8-OH-dG levels. 8-OH-dG is a chemical linked to DNA cell repair. However, researchers say longer trials are needed. “Those who work night shifts for many years would need to consistently consume melatonin supplements over that time frame to maximize the potential cancer prevention benefits,” researchers said. (UPI)