Irregular Sleep Can Cause Stroke And Heart Attack

A recent study has shed light on the importance of maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Researchers found that irregular sleep patterns may increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes.

The study, which was published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, tracked the sleep patterns of over 72,000 participants aged 40-79 over a period of seven days. The researchers calculated each participant’s Sleep Regularity Index (SRI) score, with higher scores indicating more regular sleep patterns.

The study found that individuals with irregular sleep patterns, characterized by variations in the time they went to sleep and woke up, were 26% more likely to suffer a major cardiovascular event than those with regular sleep patterns. This association remained even after adjusting for factors such as age, physical activity, and smoking.

The researchers noted that individuals with higher SRI scores were more likely to get the recommended amount of sleep per night, but that even irregular sleepers who got sufficient sleep were still at increased risk of cardiovascular events.

Lead study author Professor Jean Pierre Chaput emphasized the importance of prioritizing consistent sleep patterns, rather than just focusing on getting enough sleep. “Our results suggest that sleep regularity may be more relevant than sufficient sleep duration,” Chaput said.

Chaput recommended that individuals aim to establish consistent sleep patterns, with bedtimes and wake-up times varying by no more than 30-60 minutes. He also cautioned against relying on catching up on sleep at the weekends, noting that while extra sleep can temporarily improve mood and cognitive function, irregular sleep patterns can disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythm and lead to long-term health risks.

The study’s findings have significant implications for public health, particularly in terms of reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. By prioritizing consistent sleep patterns and getting sufficient sleep, individuals can reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and improve their overall health and well-being.

While the study’s observational design means that it cannot establish causality between irregular sleep patterns and cardiovascular events, the findings are supported by other research that has highlighted the importance of sleep regularity for cardiovascular health.

In conclusion, the study’s findings emphasize the importance of maintaining a consistent sleep schedule to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. By prioritizing sleep regularity and getting sufficient sleep, individuals can improve their overall health and well-being.