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.

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. Please get tickets here.