Recent research indicates that irregular sleep patterns, even among those who meet the recommended sleep duration, significantly increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. The study, which analysed data from over 72,000 participants aged 40 to 79, reveals that individuals with inconsistent sleep schedules were 26% more likely to experience severe cardiovascular events compared to those with regular sleep routines.
While much research has focused on sleep duration, this study emphasises the importance of sleep regularity. Participants’ Sleep Regularity Index (SRI) scores showed that those who maintained consistent sleep habits were more likely to get the optimal seven to nine hours of sleep nightly. Nevertheless, even those achieving recommended sleep but with irregular sleep times faced elevated health risks.
Lead author Jean Pierre Chaput suggests that prioritising consistent sleep, with only minor variations in bedtimes and wake-up times, can enhance sleep quality and overall health. He warns against the misconception of compensating for sleep deficits on weekends, as this does not entirely mitigate the adverse effects of disrupted sleep patterns.
Chaput advocates for recognising sleep as a vital aspect of well-being, integral for reducing risks of conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. The findings were published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health.