Lack of quality sleep can have serious consequences for a person's health, including increasing the risk of developing cancer. Research conducted by researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health has shown that sleep disturbances may increase a woman's risk of developing breast cancer.
During the study, which lasted seven years from 2002 to 2009, scientists observed 928 volunteers from Iceland, of whom 111 were diagnosed with prostate cancer. In addition, the disease progressed in 24 volunteers. In women suffering from sleep disorders, the most vulnerable place was the mammary gland.
As scientists note, melatonin, a hormone that is produced during sleep, plays an important role in protecting the body from the development of cancer. Insufficient melatonin associated with sleep disturbances may increase the risk of cancer. Therefore, to maintain health, in addition to regular examinations, it is also necessary to pay attention to the quality and duration of sleep.
To improve sleep quality, scientists recommend the following measures:
- Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
- Place your cell phone and other electronic devices in another room to avoid distracting sounds and lights.
- Create a cozy atmosphere in the bedroom: it should be cool, quiet and dark.
- Try to avoid caffeine and alcohol in the late afternoon.
- Before bed, do quiet activities, such as reading a book or listening to music.
Additionally, if you have trouble sleeping, be sure to see your doctor, who may recommend treatment or consultation with a sleep specialist. Overall, taking care of the quality and duration of sleep is an important intervention for the prevention of cancer, including breast cancer.