A recent study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that healthy sleep patterns can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in midlife and older adults. The researchers analyzed data from the Dongfeng-Tongji cohort in China, which included over 15,000 individuals with an average age of 66. The study found that those with persistent favorable sleep patterns had a lower risk of new onset cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke compared to those with persistent unfavorable sleep patterns. The findings also showed that genetic risk for cardiovascular disease did not modify these associations.
The study highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy sleep patterns over time, as changes in sleep habits were associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The participants were assessed for factors such as bedtime, sleep duration, sleep quality, midday napping, and polygenic risk scores for coronary heart disease and stroke. The researchers emphasized the need for more studies focusing on older individuals with natural sleep patterns, as most previous research has been conducted on midlife adults who often adjust their sleep schedules around work.
Sleep expert Chelsey Borson emphasized the importance of adequate sleep for heart health, noting that insufficient sleep can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular issues such as hypertension and coronary artery disease. Borson recommended maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, avoiding stimulating activities before bedtime, and creating a calming bedtime routine to promote better sleep. Dr. Rigved Tadwalkar, a cardiologist, also stressed the importance of good sleep hygiene, including keeping the bedroom cool, dark, and quiet, and seeking help from a healthcare professional if sleep difficulties persist.
The study authors acknowledged the increasing burden of cardiovascular disease worldwide and the need for identifying modifiable risk factors for prevention of heart disease. They highlighted the role of lifestyle and genetics in cardiovascular health, with previous research showing that individuals with healthy lifestyles have a lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. The researchers collected sleep information from participants at two time points approximately five years apart and prospectively explored the long-term outcomes of changes in sleep patterns on cardiovascular disease outcomes among middle-aged and older Chinese retirees.
Overall, the study contributes to the growing body of evidence linking healthy sleep patterns to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. The findings underscore the importance of maintaining consistent and healthy sleep habits to promote overall well-being and heart health. Further research focusing on older individuals with natural sleep patterns is needed to better understand the association between sleep and cardiovascular health in this population. Individuals experiencing sleep difficulties are encouraged to seek guidance from healthcare professionals to identify underlying causes and receive personalized advice and treatment options.
