About the Irish Sleep Society...

The Irish Sleep Society (ISS) was officially founded on 24th September 2005 following a meeting of healthcare professionals who specialise in disorders of sleep. This Professional Society was founded with the aim of informing other healthcare professionals, administrators and the public of the nature of problems that occur during sleep and how these may affect health and society.

Sleep allows for rest and repair of tissue, in particular, the brain. When a person’s sleep is disturbed this has an effect on their memory, concentration and work performance.  Disturbances in sleep also contribute to weight gain, diabetes and heart disease.

Sleep disturbance may be due to insufficient sleep and poor quality sleep both of which are common consequences of modern living.  However, the increasing incidence of obesity has led to an increased incidence of sleep apnoea, a condition in which people who snore stop breathing during the night and despite an apparently heavy sleep are constantly tired and fall asleep during the day. 

Sleepiness is also a major contributor to road traffic accidents.  “It took many years to recognise the dangers of drinking and driving before legislation and society responded.  People with sleep apnoea may have the same risk of road traffic accidents as people who drive at twice the legal alcohol levels” Dr Costello, Consultant Physician at Beaumont Hospital and spokesman for the Society said. The society hopes to persuade the Department of Transport to include the analysis of sleepiness as a factor in road traffic accidents.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:

President: Walter Mc Nicholas

Secretary: Geraldine Nolan (Lawless)

Treasurer: Catherine Crowe

Ordinary Members:

Deirdre Mc Swiney, Brenda Aiken, Ed Cotter