Most of us know what it feels like after a long night with little or no sleep, but do we know the wide-reaching effects such nights can have on our health?
Sleep is a fundamental, biological necessity that is governed by our bodies and 24-hr (circadian) clock processes. Millions of Americans suffer the health consequences of disrupted sleep or circadian organization. Inadequate amount or quality of sleep is a growing and under-appreciated determinant of health status. The consequences to society are enormous, including risk for several of modern societies’ medical epidemics including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer, accidents and overall quality of life. This lecture will provide an up to date understanding of the biological mechanisms that regulate sleep and wake function, the multiple functions of sleep and the consequences of poor sleep and circadian misalignment (as seen with shift work) on performance, learning and memory, and physical health. In addition, strategies to promote better sleep at the right time of the day will be discussed.
RESOURCES:
If you would like to learn more about this topic, here are a few resources provided by the speaker:
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Library Resources
Center of Circadian and Sleep Medicine
Happy learning!
Event Details
This program is part of the “Science in the Parks” initiative and is presented by C2ST and the Chicago Park District. It is geared towards adults and kids alike.
Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.
The program will be held at the Fieldhouse, which is located on the north side of Horner Park off the corner of California Avenue and Montrose Avenue. Doors open at 5:30 pm and the program starts at 6:00 pm.
Parking and Transportation:
There is a free parking lot just south of the Fieldhouse on California Avenue. Horner Park is located near the Rockwell and Francisco Stations of the Brown Line and multiple bus lines. For directions using public transportation visit www.transitchicago.com.
Notice: As a guest of Chicago Council on Science and Technology (C2ST), you agree to be photographed, videotaped, or filmed and grant C2ST permission to put the finished footage/photography to any uses that it may deem proper including marketing, advertising (print, radio, and television) and PR-related activities.
