Sleep Problems and Road Accidents

Miranda Nava Gabriel*

Received: May 23, 2018;   Published: May 29, 2018

DOI: 10.32474/OJNBD.2018.01.000113

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Abstract

Traffic accidents are considered a public health problem and demonstrate several causative factors that include sleep deprivation, hours and hours of driving without rest, drugs with sedative action (anxiolytics, hypnotics, tricyclic antidepressants and antihistamines), sleep disorders (SAOS, narcolepsy), and alcohol consumption. There is a growing concern regarding Health and Safety in the Transport Sector with respect to drivers who, in their work performance, show a high risk of incidents due to drowsiness. Numerous studies show excessive sleepiness in public service drivers due to changes in the circadian rhythm and a high frequency of OSAS [1]. Excessive sleepiness and sleep deprivation are considered high risk factors for the development of suicidal ideation and behaviour.

Background| Excessive Drowsiness in the Work Performance of Drivers| Sleep Disorders, Ideation and Suicidal Behaviour| Common Mechanisms between Sleep Disorders and Suicide Risk| References|