Which of the following is a long-term effect of sleep deprivation?

• A. Enhanced immune system function
• B. Temporary improvement in short-term memory
• C. Increased risk of developing chronic health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease
• D. Consistently elevated mood and energy levels

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of sleep deprivation, which refers to the condition of not getting enough sleep over an extended period.
2. Step 2: Recognize that sleep deprivation affects various bodily systems, including cognitive function, mood, immune response, and metabolic health.
3. Step 3: Differentiate between short-term and long-term effects. Short-term effects might include temporary changes in mood or memory, while long-term effects involve more serious health consequences.
4. Step 4: Identify that enhanced immune function or consistently elevated mood and energy levels are unlikely outcomes of sleep deprivation, as sleep loss generally impairs these functions.
5. Step 5: Conclude that increased risk of developing chronic health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease is a well-documented long-term effect of chronic sleep deprivation.