Researchers from the University of Sydney and the University of Southern Denmark studied 308,683 middle-aged adults to determine the effect of poor sleep on cardiovascular health.
The study found that sleep disorders, including insomnia, breathing-related conditions, snoring, and daytime sleepiness were linked to a reduction in heart-healthy years by about seven years.
Women experienced a 7.32-year reduction in heart-healthy years due to breathing-related sleep disorders, while men encountered a 6.73-year reduction.
- People who slept poorly experienced an average 2-year reduction in cardiac health.
- The authors highlight the need to address sleep issues holistically, not just focus on sleep duration.
- The study suggests discussing sleep with patients and resolving issues to prevent long-term effects on heart health.
- Cardiovascular risk factors, including obesity and physical inactivity, cause breathing-related sleep disorders and physical inactivity.
- These factors can worsen sleep quality, leading to cardiovascular issues.
Poor sleep has been linked to abnormal regulation of the cardiovascular system, including the heart and blood vessels, increased inflammation, blood pressure dysregulation, and disruption of the sympathetic nervous system.
