Press & News
Q8 and Assirem Present Initiatives to Raise Awareness on Sleep Disorders and Safe Driving, Aiming to Reduce Road Accident Risks.
Rome, March 14, 2024 – On the occasion of World Sleep Day, Q8 and Assirem announce their collaboration, with a primary objective: to reduce the risk of road accidents due to excessive drowsiness, which research has shown to be one of the main causes of traffic accidents.
Statistics regarding the causes of road accidents reveal alarming data: 80% are caused by "human factors," and a significant number of these accidents stem from excessive drowsiness. About 22% of accidents are due to microsleeps , and it is estimated that sleeping less than five hours increases the risk of an accident by 4.5 times. Additionally, staying awake for 24 consecutive hours can impair driving similarly to an individual under the influence of alcohol. Further studies have shown that the risk of accidents is up to seven times higher for 27% of adults suffering from OSAS (Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome), caused by airway obstruction.
In response to these findings, Q8, one of the leading players in the mobility sector, and Assirem, the Italian Association for Research and Education in Sleep Medicine, have decided to join forces to launch a campaign aimed at raising awareness of sleep-related issues and promoting safe driving.
"We wanted this partnership with Assirem," declared Fortunato Costantino, Director of Human Resources, Legal & Corporate Affairs at Q8, "to carry out concrete initiatives and provide useful tools to raise awareness among drivers, encouraging greater self-awareness and understanding of the risks associated with drowsy driving. This project," continued Costantino, "is perfectly aligned with our commitment to sustainability in all its aspects, convinced that businesses should play not only an economic role but also a social one, supporting the community and territory."
"Sleep disorders are a growing social epidemic with serious consequences for health, quality of life, workplace safety, and road safety. Q8 and ASSIREM intend to tackle this challenge with an information campaign in Q8 service stations over the coming months," stated Dr. Pierluigi Innocenti, Neurologist and President of ASSIREM ETS.
Q8 and Assirem have thus initiated a series of initiatives and informative materials that will be available at Q8 stations, on the ClubQ8 App, and on the dedicated website.
The first initiative is the creation of a test accessible via the website and the ClubQ8 App, which allows drivers to assess their sleep quality risk profile. This test was developed by Assirem in collaboration with Nomisma, an economic research and consulting firm providing analyses and forecasts in economics, finance, and real estate markets.
The second initiative involves organizing informative webinars that cover various topics, such as circadian rhythm, the importance of sleep for health, and excessive daytime drowsiness while driving (details available on www.Q8.it).
Lastly, an exclusive guide will be made available, offering practical information on sleep management, including tips on recognizing sleep disorders, especially when driving.
To reduce the risk of accidents caused by drowsiness, Dr. Pierluigi Innocenti always recommends avoiding nighttime driving, only driving after adequate rest, and undergoing screening for sleep apnea if suspected.
But what are the warning signs to watch out for when driving? Here are the main ones:
- Beginning to make mistakes
- Difficulty keeping your eyes open
- Head tends to droop
- Not remembering the last few kilometers driven
- Being too close to the vehicle ahead
- Finding oneself accidentally in the opposite lane
- Missing a road sign
Joining the Q8 and Assirem campaign and following the above suggestions means taking a step towards safer and more responsible driving. Sleeping well is essential for better driving and protecting both your own life and that of others on the road.
About Q8
Q8 is one of Italy's leading energy sector players, ensuring the mobility of people and goods. It is active, also through subsidiaries and affiliated companies, across the entire integrated downstream cycle—from refining to the end consumer—thanks to a network of approximately 2,800 service stations across the country and logistics that supports the entire distribution network. Q8 is also active, through other Group companies, in the direct sales market (off-network), as well as in the lubricants and marine and aviation fuel markets. Sustainability is at the heart of Q8's strategy, pursued through a synergistic combination of environmental protection, social development, and economic growth. For more information, visit www.Q8.it
ASSIREM ETS, the Italian Association for Research and Education in Sleep Medicine, is a non-profit organization founded in 2013 to promote proper sleep education and culture through campaigns, informative materials, and public events. It also conducts research on sleep disorder-related diseases, their prevention, and treatment. All activities of the association, along with the results of studies and research, are available on the Assirem website, Facebook page, Linkedin and Instagram.
Connexia – Press Office for Q8
Michela Spagnuolo - michela.spagnuolo@connexia.retexspa.com - +39 366 6971634
Gioiamaria Ciavarelli - gioiamaria.ciavarelli@connexia.retexspa.com - +39 342 1687624
Luna Piombino - luna.piombino@connexia.retexspa.com - +39 389 7627506
For further information:
Assirem Press Office
Francesca Lo Furno
Port 347 8665484
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