Danish women, who developed breast cancer after working nightshift, have been awarded compensation by their government following research from the World Health Organisation showing disrupted sleep patterns were linked to cancer.

A United Nations ruling followed stating women on nightshifts were more likely to get cancer and the Danish government has, so far, paid out to 40 women - although those who have a history of cancer in their family are not eligible for compensation.

It is thought 3.5 million people in the UK work nights and the Health and Safety Executive is to carry out a two-year survey to ascertain the effects of sleep deprivation on cancer.