Sleep Deprivation May Lead to CVD in Older Women

Older women with sleep deprivation may have an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), according to a recent study.

Findings from the study were presented at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2017, which is taking place November 11 to 15, 2017.

For their study, the researchers assessed nearly 21,500 female health professionals age 60 to 84 years. Sleep deprivation was defined as sleeping at least 2 more hours on weekends than on weekdays.

Ultimately, the researchers found that the risk for CVD was increased in older women who were sleep-deprived during the week. Results indicated that women with sleep debt had higher risks for obesity and hypertension compared with those without sleep debt.

Findings also showed that, even after adjustment for socioeconomic status and sources of stress, including negative life events and work-related stress, sleep quality had an important role in good overall cardiovascular health.

—Christina Vogt

Reference:

Sleep deprivation may increase risk of cardiovascular disease in older women [press release]. Anaheim, CA. American Heart Association. November 14, 2017. https://newsroom.heart.org/news/sleep-deprivation-may-increase-risk-of-cardiovascular-disease-in-older-women. Accessed November 15, 2017.