Many Adults Lack Shut-Eye

A recent poll by the National Sleep Foundation found that 54% of Americans haveat least 1 symptom of insomnia a few nights a week or more. Of the 1500 individualssurveyed, more than a third reported waking up feeling unrefreshed, and 32%reported waking up frequently during the night.

Lack of sleep can cause health and safety consequences, according to the poll.For example, 1 in 4 are at risk for sleep apnea; 60% of licensed drivers reported feelingdrowsy over the past year; and 4% had an accident or near miss on the road dueto drowsiness behind the wheel. Sleep experts said that occasional episodes ofacute insomnia are normal. When the episodes are chronic, they become a seriousproblem. Individuals experiencing insomnia 3 or more days a week for >2 to 4 weeksshould see a physician. It may be a risk factor for other illnesses.