One-Third Lose Sleep Over Economy

Worries about money keep one-third of people in the U.S. from sleeping properly, according to a survey by the national Sleep Foundation.

The group said that the number of people who say they get less than six hours of sleep a night rose 13 percent since 2001.

"It's easy to understand why so many people are concerned over the economy and jobs, but sacrificing sleep is the wrong solution," National Sleep Foundation CEO David Cloud said. "Sleep is essential for productivity and alertness and is a vital sign for one's overall health."

"With the economy worsening, we are seeing patients in our clinic who have told us that they would not be returning for treatment because they or other family members have lost their jobs, and they are concerned about costs," said Dr. Meir Kryger of Gaylord Sleep Services. "Some patients have elected not to be treated for sleep apnea because they could not afford the co-pay for the equipment. These patients may wind up far sicker."

The National Sleep Foundation said in a news release it encourages people to maintain good sleep, exercise and diet routines to help combat anxiety and improve health and productivity.