Sleep disorders in critically ill cancer patients

Sleep disorders are common in society and are common in patients with cancer. Patients with cancer frequently complain of sleep problems and daytime sleepiness. The diagnosis of cancer, cancer treatments, and psychological issues in dealing with a cancer diagnosis and treatment may cause sleep disruption. Furthermore, in the course of cancer treatment, many patients with cancer require intensive care unit (ICU) care which can cause additional sleep disruption. This sleep disruption in an ICU can be due to environmental factors, frequent interventions, and use of various sedative medications. Therefore, patients with cancer, particularly those requiring ICU care, commonly develop sleep problems. Treatment of sleep problems in these patients may improve the morbidity and possibly mortality associated with cancer.