Sleep disorders found to be highly prevalent in firefighters

In a national sample of almost 7000 firefighters, researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) examined the prevalence of common sleep disorders and their association with adverse health and safety outcomes. They found that sleep disorders are highly prevalent among firefighters and can be associated with increased risk of motor vehicle crashes and cardio-metabolic diseases.

Findings of the study, led by Laura K Barger PhD, associate physiologist in BWH's Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, are published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.

"Our findings demonstrate the impact of common sleep disorders on firefighter health and safety, and their connection to the two leading causes of death among firefighters," said Barger. "Unfortunately, more than 80% of firefighters who screened positive for a common sleep disorder were undiagnosed and untreated."

Based on specific criteria, 66 US fire departments were selected to participate in a workplace-based sleep disorders screening and educational program. Approximately 7000 firefighter participants were assessed for common sleep disorders. Firefighters were also surveyed about health and safety, and documentation collected for reported motor vehicle crashes.

Participants reported current health status, previous diagnoses of sleep and other medical disorders, the likelihood of falling asleep while driving, motor vehicle crashes, near crashes and injuries.

Researchers found that a total of 37.2% of firefighters screened positive for sleep disorders including obstructive sleep apnoea, insomnia, shift-work disorder and restless leg syndrome. Firefighters with a sleep disorder were more likely to report a motor vehicle crash and were more likely to report falling asleep while driving than those who did not screen positive. Additionally, firefighters with sleep disorders were more likely to report having cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression and anxiety, and to report poorer health status, compared with those who did not screen positive.

"Occupational sleep disorder screening programs can identify individuals who are vulnerable to adverse safety and health consequences, including those that are leading causes of death in firefighters," stated Charles Czeisler PhD MD FRCP, chief, BWH Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders. "This study provides the rationale for further research evaluating the effectiveness of occupational sleep disorders management programs on disease risk, mental health and safety outcomes."

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