Rare Gene Allows Less Sleep

Item: Scientists find rare gene behind short sleepers /AP

More Info: Scientists have discovered a gene that helps a mother and daughter stay alert on about six hours sleep a night, two hours less than the rest of their family needs. It’s believed to be a very rare mutation, not an excuse for the rest of us who stay up too late. But the finding, published in Friday’s edition of the journal Science, offers a new lead to study how sleep affects health. The National Institutes of Health says adults need seven hours to nine hours of sleep for good health. Regularly getting too little increases the risk of health problems, including memory impairment and a weakened immune system.

Question: How much sleep do you average?