http://www.straitstimes.com/premium/forum-letters/story/unhealthy-effects-sleep-deprivation-20140617
He wrote: "There are many overworked and sleep-deprived people in Singapore...
"Sleep is a biological requirement that can't be overcome with willpower, determination or training. Research suggests that the adverse effects of sleep deprivation kick in when adults get less than five hours of sleep a day. Of these effects, the impairment of vision and coordination are the two most relevant to drowsy driving."
Although the article focused on sleep deprivation and driving, the statements are relevant in many other situations.
Workplace accidents, for instance, may be caused by workers who have not had enough sleep. Of the many sleep-deprived people in Singapore, many are students, workers and senior citizens.
Some are sleep-deprived after late nights out and other nightlife-related activities; some are affected by work - a heavy workload or tight deadlines - and others because of insomnia.
Whatever the cause, the negative effects are the same. It is unhealthy for individuals to have impaired coordination and vision for the long term.
Sleep-deprived people cannot perform regular exercise safely and so they lead a sedentary, unhealthy lifestyle.
This problem cannot be resolved overnight. But an awareness of the negative effects of sleep deprivation is the first step in addressing the problem.
Quek Koh Choon (Dr)
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