Firefighters at higher risk of sleep problems

Thursday, November 13, 2014

We know firefighters sacrifice a lot to keep other people safe.

Now a new study shows many sacrifice good sleep and their health as well.

In a survey of 7,000 firefighters, Harvard doctors discovered that a third have sleep apnea, insomnia, restless leg syndrome or other sleep disorders.

And those with sleep problems are twice as likely to have been in car accidents.

The trouble is that many firefighters work 12 or 24-hour shifts, making regular sleep schedules difficult.

But the researchers say finding solutions for firefighters is vital not only for their health but also so they can continue to do their best saving other peoples' lives.