Sleep Expert Urges Later School Starts to Combat Swiss Teen Sleep Deprivation
Albrecht Vorster, a renowned sleep researcher and director of the Swiss Sleep House at Bern’s Inselspital, has highlighted the importance of addressing sleep deprivation among Swiss adolescents. Vorster, who has studied biology and philosophy at prestigious institutions, advocates for later school start times and education on healthy sleep habits in schools.
Vorster's research, supported by findings from Switzerland and worldwide, underscores the significant economic costs of fatigue among employees, particularly shift workers and adolescents. He notes that poor sleep can lead to serious health issues like depression, anxiety, hypertension, and even diabetes. Moreover, it can result in reduced productivity and increased risks of stroke and heart attack. Vorster argues that sleep is a skill that can be learned, and proper sleep habits can significantly improve overall health and productivity.
Vorster's book, 'Why We Sleep', delves into the science of sleep and its crucial role in our lives. He advocates for pushing back school start times to 9 a.m. for adolescents, as they are the most sleep-deprived demographic due to their shifting biological clocks during puberty. Vorster also warns about the long-term effects of shift work, including increased risks of cardiovascular disease, digestive disorders, divorce, and decreased school performance in children.
Albrecht Vorster's insights into the impact of sleep deprivation, particularly among Swiss adolescents, underscore the need for action. By educating teenagers about healthy sleep habits and adjusting school start times, Switzerland can potentially prevent mental health issues, improve productivity, and reduce long-term health risks and economic costs.
