Kolkata, 6 March’25: Medica Superspecialty Hospital, a part of the Manipal Hospital Group, hosted an insightful panel discussion today on ‘Sleep Health’ to commemorate upcoming World Sleep Day on 14th March 2025. The discussion brought together esteemed medical professional including Dr. Kunal Sarkar, Senior Vice Chairman, Senior Cardiac Heart Surgeon & Head MICS, (Prof.) Dr. Subhankar Chowdhury, Director, Department of Diabetes & Endocrinology, Dr. Pradeepta kumar Sethy, Director – Gastroenterology from the hospital along with (Prof.) Dr. Anirban Roy – renowned Psychiatrist as panelists to shed light on the impact of sleep on overall health and well-being. The discussion was skillfully moderated by Dr. Shaswati Sengupta Datta, Senior Consultant, ENT & Sleep Apnea and Dr. Souvik Roy Choudhury, Senior Consultant, ENT & Sleep Apnea.
Good sleep is the cornerstone of well-being, yet it is being neglected in this fast-paced era. On this World Sleep Day, under the slogan "Make Sleep Health a Priority," it is essential to understand that quality sleep is not a luxury but a need for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Poor sleep can lead to all manner of illnesses, from weakened immunity to increased stress and chronic disease. The catchphrase behind the panel discussion was to get people to realize on how by developing good sleep habits—such as having a regular sleep routine, limiting screen time at night, and making the environment calming—people can improve their productivity during the day, our mood, and our overall health.
Facilitated by Dr. Shaswati Sengupta Datta, the session enlightened participants about the importance of identifying sleep disorders, their symptoms, and availing themselves of early medical care. Highlighting the extensive influence of sleep on one's well-being, Dr. Sengupta Datta said, "Good health begins with quality sleep, yet many overlook warning signs like chronic snoring, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating—often early indicators of underlying health issues. Even pediatric sleep problems, if ignored, can hinder a child's physical, behavioral, and social development. Establishing healthy sleep habits from an early age is essential, though it's never too late to make positive changes. Seeking professional evaluation and timely intervention can prevent long-term complications and significantly improve overall well-being."
During the discussion, Dr. Kunal Sarkar, emphasized the connection between sleep and cardiovascular health. "Poor sleep is directly associated with hypertension, arrhythmias, and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases. A routine sleep schedule is as important as a healthy diet and exercise for heart health."
(Prof.) Dr. Subhankar Chowdhury, outlined the relationship of sleep with metabolic disorders. "Chronic lack of sleep disorganizes glucose metabolism, causing a risk increase for diabetes and obesity. A well-timed sleep pattern is important to ensure hormonal balance as well as for good metabolic function.”
While interacting, Dr. Pradeepta Kumar Sethy, described how sleep patterns affect digestive health. "Irregular sleep patterns can exacerbate conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome, and indigestion. A regular sleep schedule maintains digestive function and prevents stress-related gut problems."
In discussing the significance of quality sleep, (Prof.) Dr. Anirban Roy, Psychiatrist, highlighted the interconnection between sleep and mental health. "Sleep and emotional well-being are very closely linked. Sleep deprivation is a significant cause of anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene can make a big difference in mental clarity and resilience."
Dr. Souvik Roy Choudhury, while concluding the discussion, highlighted the serious impact of chronic sleep disorders. He stated, “Sleep apnea and insomnia, two of the most prevalent sleep disorders, not only disrupt sleep but also pose significant health risks, including hypertension, heart disease, and cognitive impairment. A Forbes report from last year revealed that for every 100 male OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) patients, there are approximately 50-60 female patients. Women with obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome, those who are postmenopausal, or pregnant are at a higher risk of developing OSA. The condition is also common in children, even preschoolers, often manifesting as hyperactivity, attention deficits, mood swings, poor academic performance, and growth issues. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial for effective management. By incorporating lifestyle changes, seeking medical guidance, and adhering to prescribed treatments, individuals can significantly improve sleep quality and overall well-being.”
Regarding the panel discussion, Dr. Ayanabh Debgupta, Regional Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Hospitals (East), stated, “Prioritizing our health is essential, and quality sleep plays a vital role in maintaining overall well-being. I am glad that we organized this panel discussion at our hospital today, to raise awareness on this important topic, with esteemed senior doctors from various specialties sharing their insights as panelists.”
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