Work and Social factors

The unit conducts studies on the associations between shiftwork and disease, as shift work, and in particular night work, has been linked in several studies to an increased risk of common diseases including certain cancers such as breast cancer, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.  

We consider the role of social factors in the risk of disease and disability using the Million Women Study dataset. Recent and current projects include:

• The risk of heart disease in relation to marital status, social participation and socio-economic status.
• Disability and visual impairment in later life, including risk factors for cataract  surgery.
• Disability and cancer screening disparities.
• Changes in health-related behaviours before and after retirement.