This study evaluated the sleep hygiene and prevalence of sleep deprivation among 2,007 long-distance automobile drivers (mean age 43 years). All subjects completed a validated questionnaire on sleep wake habits during the year. After answering the questionnaire, subjects completed a graphic travel and sleep log of the 3 days preceding the interview. Results show that 50% of the drivers decreased their total sleep time in the 24 hours before the interview versus their regular self-reported sleep time. 12.5% presented a sleep debt >180 min, and 2.7% presented a sleep debt >300 min. Being young, commuting to work, driving long distances, starting the trip at night, being an "evening" person, being a long sleeper during the week, and sleeping in on the weekend were risk factors significantly associated with sleep debt. The results of the study highlight variables (long-distance driving, youth, sleep restriction) that are frequently associated with sleep-related accidents. (A)
Abstract