According to a new study, almost 40% of firefighters are suffering from at least one sleep disorder. Published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine just last month, this new research led by Laura K. Barger, an associate physiologist in BWH’s Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, may explain why so the two leading causes of death of firefighters are heart attacks and traffic crashes.
Nearly 7,000 firefighters were sampled from 66 fire departments in the nation, participating in a workplace sleep disorder screening and education program, as researchers assessed their sleep habits and issues.
Sadly, of the 37.2% firefighters who screened positive for a sleep disorder, more than 80% of them had been undiagnosed and untreated. Some of the sleep disorders found included insomnia, shift work disorders, restless leg syndrome, and obstructive sleep apnea.
Firefighters with a sleep disorder were more likely to be involved in a traffic accident and were more likely to report falling asleep behind the wheel, compared to those without a sleep disorder. Additionally, those with sleep disorders were more likely to report have depression, anxiety, diabetes, and heart disease, as well as being in poorer health.
“Occupational sleep disorder screening programs can identify individuals who are vulnerable to adverse safety and health consequences, including those that are leading causes of death in firefighters,” added Charles Czeisler, PhD, MD, FRCP, chief, BWH Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders. “This study provides the rationale for further research evaluating the effectiveness of occupational sleep disorders management programs on disease risk, mental health and safety outcomes.”
If you haven’t been sleeping well lately or just don’t feel quite as energized as you should in the mornings, speak to a licensed professional no matter what your profession. The benefits and consequences of chronic sleep loss and poor sleep quality cannot be stressed enough.
No comments yet.