Public health burden of sleep disorders: underreported problem

Background Sleep is a naturally reversible process that plays an essential role in human wellbeing. Sleep enables optimal functioning of physical and mental health and contributes to quality of life and safety. There are many individuals among the general public who do not realize they are sleep deficient and are not aware of the effects of sleep deprivation on their health and on the safety of their peers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy drivers cause between 10 and 30% of all traffic accidents. Purpose Many believe that sleep is a luxury and that by decreasing sleep they can maximize their productivity. In this article, we emphasize that sleep is a necessity and the only way to pay the sleep debt is to sleep. This review article aims to increase awareness of early signs of sleep deficiency, consequences of poor sleep, and proper sleep hygiene for healthcare professionals to influence practice in educating patients about needed changes in sleep behaviors. Conclusions Sleep deficiency not only has side effects on the personal level, but also can cause harm on a larger scale through chronic disease, motor vehicle accidents, and workplace accidents. A better understanding of sleep and its effects encourages a better quality of life and fewer hazardous behaviors. Clinical implications Sleep is an active state of recovery during which the optimal function of all body systems is reinstated. Sleep repairs and prevents occurrence of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and obesity.