Experts call for sleep health policy to be put on public health agenda

The causes of sleep have been studied for decades, and it is now known that sleep is essential for many biological functions in the body. However, despite advances in our understanding of sleep, its importance is not recognized on most national public health agendas. To this end, the expert team published the research report “The Necessity of Promoting Sleep Health in the Global Public Health Agenda” to call for action and promote the implementation of sleep health policies.

This study shows the irregularities present in global data. Only 43 of the 194 World Health Organization (WHO) members collect data on sleep duration in the general population. This contrasts with the amount of data collected on other aspects, such as physical inactivity or smoking. This inequality is concerning given that sleep deprivation is an established risk factor for many health problems. The European Academy of Neurology and the World Health Organization have recognized sleep as a determinant of brain health. The American Heart Association lists sleep duration as one of eight key factors for optimal cardiovascular health.

From neurological disorders to cancer

Sleep deprivation can be divided into three categories: sleep deprivation, which is less than six hours of sleep per night; sleep disorders, such as irregular sleep or accompanied by nightmares; and sleep disorders, such as insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and sleep apnea.

Experts point out that sleep deprivation is associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, obesity, diabetes, coronary artery disease, and cardiovascular death. Additionally, losing just one hour of sleep during the daylight saving time transition was associated with an increased risk of heart attack over the next three days.

Lack of sleep has been linked to an impaired immune response to vaccines and an increased risk of COVID-19, tuberculosis and the common cold. Since the immune system plays a key role in fighting cancer, sleep deprivation can lead to a weakened immune response, which can lead to further progression of the disease. These diseases increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia due to a reduced ability to clear beta-amyloid waste products.

environmental and social factors

The consequences of environmental stress, such as those experienced by some due to damage from climate change, may increase cortisol and norepinephrine. This increases sympathetic nervous system activity and can negatively impact sleep and health. Research shows sleep deprivation also depends on social level. For example, sleep deprivation may be caused by financial pressure or psychological stress.

Adverse social and physical environments, combined with individual vulnerabilities, may have a synergistic effect on the economic costs of sleep deprivation. People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may have poor sleep quality and poor daytime functioning, resulting in increased absenteeism and health care utilization. Simply put, improving sleep health can improve overall health equity.

Experts share three recommendations to give sleep issues the attention they deserve through sleep health policies. First, educate to increase awareness about sleep and circadian health. Second, standard data on sleep and circadian rhythms were collected and centralized in each country. Finally, implement policies, including sleep health initiatives, to advance the public health agenda.

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