People need to get enough sleep in order to stay healthy and to function properly. International comparative studies [1] show that work-related sleeping problems are common in Finland. Some of the factors underlying these problems, such as atypical working hours, are difficult to remedy.[1] www.eurofound.europa.eu/ef/search/node/ewco OR 3wc OR 3wc35c2?oldIndex
Getting enough sleep is important for the overall health and functioning of individuals. Research shows that sleeping problems associated with work are prevalent in Finland. This creates challenges for today’s 24-hour information society.
People need to get enough sleep in order to stay healthy and to function properly. [International comparative studies](/search/node/ewco OR 3wc OR 3wc35c2?oldIndex) show that work-related sleeping problems are common in Finland. Some of the factors underlying these problems, such as atypical working hours, are difficult to remedy.
Health problems due to lack of sleep
According to Statistics Finland’s 2003 Quality of Work Life Survey, as many as 36% of women and 27% of men in Finland have sleeping difficulties at least once a week, and the figures are steadily rising. Over the past six years, sleep disorders have been on the increase, especially among women (see Figure).
A new study (August 2004) from the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health emphasises that sleep has a bearing not only on work efficiency but also on health and safety. The report brings together previous research findings about sleep and health. Serious health problems connected with nightwork and accumulated sleep deprivation are much more common today than a decade ago.
In recent times, serious illnesses have been emerging on the list of health problems associated with nightwork, in particular. Working nights combined with fatigue increases the risk of coronary disease and serious traffic accidents on land and in sea transport. Several studies have indicated that nightwork and lack of sleep may be connected to conditions such as being overweight, diabetes, cerebral thrombosis and breast cancer.
Preventive measures are needed to combat the demands of today’s 24-hour society. Improving shift systems and evaluating the burden of work are key issues.
Sleep vital for functioning of the brain
An increasingly important factor of work in the information society is the functional capacity of the brain: maintaining alertness, being able to act in new situations, learning and creativity. The report identifies the vital influence of sleep on all these functions. A person suffering from lack of sleep finds it difficult to stay alert, to think flexibly, learn new things or find new solutions. Many new findings are available about the importance of sleep for learning. For example, it seems that information acquired during waking hours is analysed by the brain during sleep so that finding a solution is easier the next day.
Quality of sleep can be improved
Following a moderate lifestyle is shown to encourage good sleep. Exercise, a warm bath or a sauna all help a person to drop off to sleep, because they raise the body temperature and are relaxing. Alcohol, caffeine and nicotine have an adverse effect on sleep. Shift workers have their own ways of adapting, such as naps, breaks and a modified sleep rhythm. Stress is among the most significant factors impeding sleep, which is why reducing stress and developing methods to manage it are so important.
A greater appreciation of sleep needed
It is impossible to be efficient while disregarding the biological need and rhythm of sleep. The latest information on sleep is now available in an accessible book, Hyvä uni - hyvä työ (‘Good sleep - good work’, in Finnish). The authors are sleep research experts [Mikko Härmä](http://www.occuphealth.fi/Internet/English/Contact us/Contact information/henktiedot?hid=139), Research Professor, and [Mikael Sallinen](http://www.occuphealth.fi/Internet/English/Contact us/Contact information/henktiedot?hid=3759), Senior Researcher, from the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health .
According to the researchers, sleep should be appreciated more in society as a factor affecting health, quality of life and productivity of work. In health education, getting adequate sleep should be given equal importance alongside nutrition, exercise and other aspects of a healthy lifestyle.
Many sectors rely on rostered shift work, such as hospitals and transport. The problem of lack of sleep should be addressed by improving working hours arrangements through legislation and collective agreements.
Eurofound recommends citing this publication in the following way.
Eurofound (2004), Impact of lack of sleep on health, article.
