*CHRONIC DISEASES LINKED TO LACK OF SLEEP* 1. *Cardiovascular disease* People sleeping less than 6hours per night are 20-40% more likely to develop heart disease. Lack of sleep increases blood pressure, heart rate and inflammation. 2. *Type 2 diabetes* Just 4 days of restricted sleep can reduce insulin sensitivity by over 30%. Poor sleep interferes with glucose metabolism and insulin function. 3. *Obesity* Short sleepers are more likely to gain weight and have higher BMI. Lack of sleep increases hunger hormone (ghrelin) and decreases the satiety hormone (leptin). This leads to overeating, especially sugary and fatty foods 4. *Depression and Anxiety* People with chronic insomnia are 10 times more likely to develop depression. Lack of sleep disrupts neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. 5. *Cognitive decline and Dementia* *Fact:* Even middle aged adults who sleep less than 6 hours regularly are at a higher risk for early dementia. Sleep helps clear brain waste, and lack of it can lead to neurodegenerative diseases. ✍️ The Male Nurse 👨🏽‍⚕️