CDC Report Reveals Widespread Fatigue Among Adults and Experts Offer Guidance

Prevalence of Fatigue in Modern Society

A new report from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals just how widespread the feeling of fatigue is among adults. According to the data, about 72% of Americans experienced fatigue on at least some days, while approximately 17%, or one in six adults, reported frequent fatigue that does not improve even after sleep or rest. Sleep medicine experts explain what may be behind the phenomenon, which habits can help, and when it is advisable to seek medical evaluation, in a study published on the health website.

The report was based on data from the 2024 U.S. National Health Interview Survey, in which participants were asked how frequently they experienced fatigue during the three months preceding the survey. The findings indicate that the phenomenon is not limited to a simple lack of energy, but may also affect daily functioning.

Demographics and Impact on Daily Life

Data show that frequent fatigue is more common among women: 20% of them reported the phenomenon, compared to 13% of men. Among American Indians and Alaska Natives, a rate of 25.5% was recorded, higher than that found in other population groups examined. Young adults also tended to report frequent fatigue at higher rates.

The impact does not end with a sense of exhaustion. People who reported frequent fatigue were more likely than others to report limitations in their ability to work and participate in social activities. However, researchers did not determine what causes the high incidence of fatigue, and did not find that Americans are currently more tired than in the past.

Dr. Zubin Bam, a sleep medicine specialist at Bridgeport Hospital in Connecticut, estimates that the pressures of modern life may explain part of the phenomenon. According to him, multitasking leaves people with less time for sleep. "Our lives have become so busy that we don't have enough hours in the day to accomplish everything we need to do," he explained.

Lifestyle Adjustments and Medical Consultation

According to Bam, one of the first steps in coping with fatigue is paying attention to dietary habits. Heavy meals, especially those rich in protein, can encourage sleepiness. In addition, he recommends ensuring adequate water consumption throughout the day. Guidelines cited in the article recommend a daily intake of about 11.5 cups of water for women and 15.5 cups for men, with about a fifth of daily water intake coming from foods such as fruits and vegetables.

"Our lives have become so busy that we don't have enough hours in the day to accomplish everything we need to do," explained Dr. Zubin Bam.

Dr. Yasmin Teschman, a sleep medicine specialist at the Mayo Clinic, recommends incorporating movement during the workday. According to her, even a short walk or stretches can improve alertness. A study mentioned in the article found that 20 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity can help improve memory after a sleep-deprived night. Experts also warn against relying on caffeine and prolonged daytime naps. Teschman recommends limiting naps to 20 minutes at most and avoiding caffeine about eight to ten hours before bedtime in order not to impair nighttime rest.

One of the central questions is how to distinguish between ordinary sleep deprivation and ongoing fatigue. According to Teschman, if a good night's sleep restores a sense of refreshment, it may be a lack of sleep. In contrast, exhaustion that persists despite adequate sleep hours may indicate another problem. Sleep quality is also significant. A cool room, a comfortable mattress, avoiding phone use for 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime, and maintaining regular sleep schedules can help.

When these changes are unhelpful, fatigue may be related to medical conditions, including obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, restless legs syndrome, anemia, thyroid problems, or certain autoimmune diseases. Experts emphasize that fatigue that does not resolve requires investigation into its cause. According to Bam, the key is to consult the appropriate physician and specialist, identify the problem, and treat it.