and other cardiovascular diseases , memory problems, weight gain, impotency, and headaches. In addition, sleep apnea may be responsible for job impairment and motor vehicle accidents.

Recent research findings, Pegram adds, have uncovered new areas of concern regarding sleep disorders including those in teenagers and young adults. “More young people are having sleep problems generally because they get less sleep than they actually need. We need to educate family practitioners about this, not to mention high schools and colleges.” he says.

As awareness of sleep disorders increases in the medical community and the public at large, the field will continue to grow significantly. The Sleep Disorders Center of Alabama, Birmingham, is striving to educate and treat their patients for better health and better quality of life.