Review article

Sleep Disorders and Circadian Rhythm

Ana Jadrijević-Tomas

Abstract

Since the establishment of the first Center for Sleep and Wakefulness Disorders in 1972, clinical recognition of sleep disorders has increased. However, it is still insufficiently recognized that disorders in this category are among the most common chronic health conditions. Today, we know that sleep disorders are related, often bidirectional, with numerous chronic diseases and conditions such as arterial hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias (especially atrial fibrillation), coronary disease, stroke, dementia, diabetes, thyroid disease, mental illness, COPD, asthma, chronic pain syndromes. These disorders contribute to the overall increase in morbidity and mortality. Sleep disorders represent a global epidemic that threatens the health and quality of life of up to 45% of the world’s population. Despite having objectively better sleep quality, women across a wide age range report more sleep problems and have a higher frequency of sleep disorders compared to men.

Keywords

circadian rhythm; chronic diseases; sleep disorders; sleep

Hrčak ID:

328489

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/328489

Publication date:

27.2.2025.

Article data in other languages: croatian

Visits: 618 *