Shift work can increase your kidney stone risk: Study

Technology Oct 02, 2025

A recent study tracking over 220,000 people for nearly 14 years found that working shift work bumps up your kidney stone risk by 15% compared to day jobs, with night shifts carrying the highest risk.
The effect is even stronger if you're younger or mostly sitting at work.

Why the risk is higher for night shifts

Night shifts mess with your body's natural clock (circadian rhythm), which helps control metabolism and kidney function.
Add in habits like less water intake, poor sleep, higher BMI, and smoking—common among night workers—and your odds go up even more.

What you can do to protect yourself

If you're on nights or have a desk job, staying hydrated and moving around more can help lower your risk.
The researchers also suggest focusing on better sleep and healthy habits to protect yourself long-term.