The following news release is based on a study published in the April issue of Neurology, the scientific journal of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN). The AAN is an association of more than 14,500 neurologists and neuroscience professionals dedicated to improving patient care through education and research. For more information or additional releases, contact AAN Communications at (612) 623-8115 or [email protected].
Sleeping Habits Tied to Increased Risk of Stroke and Heart Disease Minneapolis, MN (April 1997) - Individuals who sleep more than eight hours a night or take daytime naps are 50 percent more likely to suffer a stroke or develop heart disease, according to a study published in the April issue of the American Academy of NeurologyÃs scientific journal, Neurology.
A study conducted on a group of 8,859 adults who were followed for approximately 10 years. ìDuring this 10-year period, 322 participants suffered a stroke and 474 developed heart disease,î said study author Wayne Giles, MD, a medical epidemiologist from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, GA.
Giles said adults who reported both sleeping longer than eight hours a night and napping in the daytime were at greatest risk for stroke. These individuals were twice as likely to suffer a stroke as adults without these sleeping habits.
ìPersons who have both long sleep durations and daytime napping habits may have an underlying sleep-related disorder, such as sleep apnea,î he said. ìThis condition will markedly increase the risk for stroke and heart disease.î Giles explained that individuals with both habits should speak with their health care providers about the appropriate tests and treatments for sleep apnea. Giles suggests that individuals who are concerned that their sleep patterns may place them at an increased risk for stroke or heart disease should discuss this with their health care providers, who can order the appropriate diagnostic tests.
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