Excessive Sleep Linked to Higher Mortality Risk, Study Finds

Sleeping for nine hours or more each night may be associated with an increased risk of early death, according to a study published in the Journal of Sleep Research. Researchers found that individuals who slept longer than nine hours had a higher mortality rate compared to those who slept between seven and eight hours.

The study, which tracked the sleeping habits of over 3,000 people for 30 years, indicated that the lowest mortality rate was observed in participants who slept seven to eight hours per night. In contrast, sleeping fewer than six hours per night showed a slightly higher mortality rate than the optimal seven to eight hours, but the rate for those sleeping more than nine hours was higher still.

While the exact reasons for this association are not fully understood, the study's authors suggest potential contributing factors. Individuals who sleep longer may be more likely to experience high blood pressure, which is a known risk factor for heart disease and strokes. Additionally, prolonged sleep could lead to increased inflammation in the body. Excessive sleep may also disrupt the body's internal clock, hormonal regulation, and immune system function.

The Taiwanese researchers involved in the study recommend that sleep duration be assessed by medical professionals as part of routine health check-ups. This assessment could help identify individuals who may be at increased risk of premature death. The findings suggest that incorporating sleep duration assessment into regular health screenings could be a valuable tool for early risk identification.

Previous research has also linked excessive sleep to various health issues, including heart problems, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and poorer cognitive function. Health guidelines generally recommend that adults aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night for optimal health and well-being.