Die Schlafgewohnheiten der Österreicher : Erste Ergebnisse einer repräsentativen Umfrage (Schwerpunkt)

BackgroundSleep disturbances and lack of sleep are prevalent in modern society. Although there is a growing public interest in sleep-related topics, it is still unclear, how this knowledge of adequate sleep affects individual sleeping behavior.MethodsIn a survey representative for the Austrian population (n= 1000, 478 men, 522 women), questions concerning common sleep traits, sleep quality, sleep disturbances, and sleep habits were sampled in association with demographic and health status.ResultsOf the population interviewed, 76%reported an average sleep duration between 6 and 8 h as well as normal sleep latency; 90% were satisfied with their subjective sleep quality. On weekends, 54% reported longer sleep periods, and 23% took a nap during the day. Here, the percentage of retirees proved to be comparably high. Of the persons sampled, 87% always slept in the same bed, 31% slept alone, while 46% shared their bed with a partner. Interestingly, 18% of the sample disclosed frequent sleep disturbances, but 70% never did anything about it. Of the subpopulation who actively dealt with its problems, 45% resorted to hypnotics. Lower education and professional qualification correlated with reduced sleep quality. Similarly, obesity and lack of physical activity were associated with sleep problems. Despite the wide range of knowledge available in the media, most Austrians used their physicians or pharmacies as their primary source of information concerning questions on sleep and sleep disturbances.ConclusionThe present study on sleep habits and sleep disorders of the Austrian population gives first insight into the complexity of sleep and the influence of potential interference factors.