Browsing by Author "Silva, Francisca"
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- Firefighters' sleep quality: results of a study in The Northeast of PortugalPublication . Alves, Sara; Esteves, Filipa; Silva, Francisca; Queiroga, Felisbina; Costa, Solange; Slezakova, Klara; Alves, Maria José; Pereira, Maria do Carmo; Teixeira, João Paulo; Morais, Simone; Vaz, Josiana; Fernandes, AdíliaThe aim of this study was to evaluate and describe the overall sleep quality of firefighters. Application of the Portuguese version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to firefighters, from the Northeast of Portugal, who accepted to participate in the study. Data collected between June 2021 and July 2022. The PSQI global score classified participants as 36,9% of participants as poor sleepers, although 73,9% of firefighters reported a subjective quality of sleep of “very good” or “good”, with 9,1% recording a “bad” quality of sleep. In particular, among the 273 total of participants, 35,8% of firefighter’s assumed sleeping more than 7 hours, whilst 59,7% have a sleep efficiency of 85%. Nevertheless, 7% of individuals stated difficulties staying awake on some occasions, and/or some degree of unwillingness to carry out daily activities, in addition, 26 participants (9,5% of the cohort) stated ever took medicine to help them sleep over the past month. Results revealed a global PSQI score ranged from 0 to 19, being higher scores indicative of worse quality of sleep. The mean score was 4.6 and the median score was 4, being scores >5 considered as a significant sleep disturbance. The analytical results of this study reveal the presence of concerns related to the quality of sleep in firefighters, although they have a contrary perception, which can compromise their health and well-being. Thus, it is necessary to develop more research and appropriate interventions to optimize firefighters' sleep and reduce subsequent risks.
- The Impact of Sleep on Haematological Parameters in FirefightersPublication . Alves, Sara; Silva, Francisca; Esteves, Filipa; Costa, Solange; Slezakova, Klara; Alves, Maria; Pereira, Maria; Teixeira, João Paulo; Morais, Simone; Fernandes, Adília; Queiroga, Felisbina; Vaz, JosianaSleep is a vital process that impacts biological functions such as cell renewal, bone regeneration, and immune system support. Disrupted sleep can interrupt erythropoiesis, leading to fewer red blood cells, reduced haemoglobin concentration, and decreased haematocrit levels, potentially contributing to haematological disorders. This is particularly concerning for shift workers for example firefighters. While previous studies have explored sleep’s adverse effects on various professions, research specific to firefighters is limited. This study investigates the relationship between sleep quality and haematological parameters among firefighters in Northeast Portugal. From a sample of 201 firefighters, variations in red blood cells, haemoglobin, and haematocrit values were linked to sleep quality. The study utilised non-parametric tests (Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney, Spearman’s correlation) to explore the connection between sleep quality and haematological profile. The impact of covariates on haematological parameters was assessed using non-parametric ANCOVA (Quade’s). A multiple regression analysis was employed to further understand how sleep quality and various confounding variables impact haematological levels. Findings suggest a negative link between sleep quality and haematological levels, meaning that as sleep quality deteriorates, there is a tendency for haematological levels to decrease, as indicated by Spearman’s correlation (rRBC = −0.157, pRBC = 0.026; rHb = −0.158, pHb = 0.025; rHCT = −0.175, pHCT = 0.013). As observed in scientific literature, the correlation found suggests a possible inhibition of erythropoiesis, the process responsible for red blood cell production. Despite firefighters presenting a haematological profile within the reference range (RBC: 5.1 × 106/mm3 (SD ± 0.4), Hb: 15.6 g/dL (SD ± 1.3), 47% (SD ± 1.0), there is already an observable trend towards lower levels. The analysis of co-variables did not reveal a significant impact of sleep quality on haematological levels. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of sleep quality in determining haematological parameters among firefighters. Future research should investigate the underlying mechanisms and long-term implications of poor sleep quality on firefighter health. Exploring interventions to enhance sleep quality is vital for evidence-based strategies promoting firefighter well-being.