The effects of sleep restriction on neurobiological parameters

In modern 24-h society, the increasing work demands and lifestyle changes have resulted in the adults sleeping during the weeknights considerably less than the eight hours per night which is considered to be necessary to sustain optimal daytime functioning. Epidemiological studies have shown the association of short sleep duration and the increased risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Furthermore, laboratory studies in healthy, young adults have consistently demonstrated that chronic sleep restriction results in a number of abnormal physiologic changes including increased inflammatory markers and impaired blood glucose regulation suggesting the potential mechanisms whereby chronic sleep curtailment may affect health and longevity. Also, chronic sleep restriction results in a significant decrease of neurobehavioral performance (measured by Psychomotor Vigilance Task) as well as an increase in objective sleepiness levels (measured by Multiple Sleep Latency Test) which may lead to serious adverse effects in public safety.