IT ''linked with sleep deprivation''
26/08/2008
The development in technology is partially responsible for a lowering of the amount of sleep the average American gets a night, it has been revealed.
Computing news website Tech Republic reported figures that suggested the proliferation of computer systems and similar entertainment has brought the average from eight and a half hours a night to just fewer than seven.
It added that a lack of sleep can result in several problems, such as irritability, a weakened immune system, impaired memory and a fall in alertness and manual dexterity.
Furthermore, a long-term regular lack of sleep in bed can increase the likelihood of diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure.
It concluded: "Trying to sleep less during the week and then make up for it by oversleeping on the weekends will throw off that rhythm and make it much harder to wake up on Monday morning."
Dr Susan Redline of Case Western University in Cleveland, Ohio, recently noted that adolescents had increasing problems with sleep due to iPods, computer games and mobile phones.
