SLEEP AND WAKEFULNESS DURING HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to explore sleep changes during the month of Ramadan and to compare the sleep pattern during the fasting and non fasting period in normal healthy individuals . Method: This study was carried out at the department of Physiology FUMC Rawalpindi, Pakistan from 1st September 2006 to 31st October 2006 during which occurred the holy month of Ramadan from 25th September 2006 to 24th October 2006. A total of 435 subjects (172 women and 263 men) were provided the sleep cards to record their sleep hours. Results: During Ramadan the total sleep time (TST) for the same individuals showed a significant difference (P< 0.05) i.e. during fasting period as compared to non fasting period. During fasting period individuals slept 46minutes per day more than during none fasting period. Conclusion: Sleep behavior changes during Ramadan in fasting individuals indicate that the life style changes during Ramadan having a significant effect on sleep behavior. Factors other than fasting may play an important role in modifying an individual’s behavior during Ramadan. Further studies are needed to confirm these factors and sleep pattern during month of Ramadan.