Association between Average Weekly Work Hours and Glycated Hemoglobin in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus: Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Results (2007–2016)

Background: We examined the relationship between average weekly work hours and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in workers with diabetes. Methods: Data of 1,556 workers with diabetes mellitus (DM) from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning 2007–2016 were analyzed. Multiple regression analysis (SAS v9.4) was used to assess the correlation between average weekly work hours and HbA1c level. Results: Using 40–52 hours per week as the reference range, workers who worked more than 52 hours per week had significantly higher HbA1c levels (β: 0.2514; P=0.0087). This association remained significant (β: 0.2286; P=0.0308) among those working >52 hours in daytime shifts compared to than among those working standard 40–52 hour schedules. However, the correlation was not observed among other subgroup members who performed evening, night, regular, and irregular shifts. Conclusion: Workers with DM who worked long hours were prone to significant increases in HbA1c levels. To mitigate this risk, workplaces should adhere to legal work-hour limitations and offer part-time options for employees with diabetes. Additionally, health education programs may help workers with diabetes manage their condition more effectively.