Millions of koreans Struggle with Sleep, Raising Concerns Over Chronic Disease Risk
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – An estimated 1.3 million Koreans grapple with sleep disorders, a figure highlighting a growing public health concern as experts increasingly link poor sleep to serious chronic illnesses like dementia and cardiovascular disease. While new pharmaceutical options offering reduced side effects are gaining traction internationally, access remains limited in Korea due to ongoing licensing and insurance coverage processes.
The rising prevalence of sleep issues is prompting a renewed focus on preventative measures and lifestyle adjustments. Sleep disorders are no longer viewed as a mere inconvenience, but as a “silent chronic disease” demanding proactive management, akin to conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Experts emphasize the importance of “sleep hygiene” – consistent sleep schedules, reduced screen time before bed, limiting late-day caffeine and alcohol consumption, regular exercise, increased daylight exposure, and a conducive sleep habitat. For older adults, reviewing medication lists with healthcare providers to identify potential sleep-interfering drugs is notably crucial.
“Small changes in habits can greatly change the quality of sleep,” underscoring the power of accessible, low-cost interventions. overseas, new drugs in the orexin antagonist (DORA) series have been approved, offering a potential advancement in treatment, but their availability in Korea is pending regulatory approval and insurance coverage. Polysomnography,a sleep study,is utilized in diagnosis (Photo = Busan On Hospital).
