SLEEP DURATION AND CARDIOVASCULAR RISK

Abstract

Too short or too long sleep duration increases the risk of developing cardiovascular events, hypertension, stroke and cardiovascular mortality. These findings have been confirmed by recent studies and a sleep duration of 7-8 hours a day for adults is now an important component of a healthy lifestyle. Healthy diet, avoiding excess alcohol, tobacco, caffeine or other stimulants, practicing exercise and cognitive-behavioral therapy are essential to ensuring proper sleep and helping to reduce cardiovascular risk together with other non-pharmacological measures outlined in current guides.

Keywords

• sleep duration
• hypertension
• cardiovascular disease