March 21st marked World Sleep Day, an awareness campaign established in China by the Chinese Sleep Research Society in 2023.

Medical studies have shown that occasional insomnia can lead to daytime fatigue and impaired coordination, while chronic insomnia can result in poor concentration, memory problems, and decreased productivity.

How Long Should You Sleep? It's Not Just About the Hours

Many people wonder how many hours a night they should be getting to feel well-rested and refreshed. As every case is different, it can be easy to get discouraged by seeing some say they need 9 hours of sleep while others swear they feel great after just 6.

In truth, the quality of your sleep is just as important as the quantity. Even if you're getting a lot of hours in, your sleep may not be efficient or restful. That can lead to feelings of fatigue upon waking, even if you've slept for an extended period. Optimally, aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. Studies have shown that individuals who consistently sleep less than 6 hours per night have a 40% increased risk of developing cancer.

For women specifically, sleeping less than 6 hours or more than 9 hours is associated with a 121% increased risk of developing cancer. Experts recommend turning off your phone half an hour to an hour before bed if it's not necessary for work, and not keeping your phone by your bed. Screen time, such as scrolling on social media and watching videos, has a significant impact on sleep.