Health Infographic

The Effects of Sleep Deprivation

Lack of sleep is a health issue that deserves your attention and your doctor's help. Not getting enough sleep - due to insomnia or a sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea, or simply because you're keeping late hours - can affect your mood, memory and health in far-reaching and surprising ways. Sleep deprivation can also affect your judgement so that you don't notice its effects.

Health

36%

Increased Risk for Colorectal Cancer

36% increased in risk for colorectal cancer
Impacted Immunity

Less active immunity protectors called natural killer cells
3X

Increased Risk for Type 2 Diabetes

Nearly 3X increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes
48%

48% increased risk of developing heart disease
Higher Blood Pressure

Increased risk of high blood pressure
3X

3X more likely to catch a cold

Safety

6,000 Fatal Crashes
- 6,000 Fatal Car Crashes Caused by Drowsy Driving Each Year
1 in 25 Fall Asleep
- 1 in 25 Adults Have Fallen Asleep at the Wheel in the Past Month

Weight

Increased Cravings

Increased cravings for sweet, salty and savory food

Feeling Hungrier

Higher levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin
50%

Higher Risk for Obesity

50% higher risk for obesity if you get less than 5 hours of sleep nightly
Less Appetite Control

Lower levels of the appetite-control hormone leptin