LONDON: People suffering from insomnia may face a significantly higher risk of stroke, according to a new study published in the journal Sleep Medicine Reviews.
Sleep is essential for both physical and mental health, but millions of people worldwide experience insomnia for a variety of reasons. While short-term sleep problems may resolve within days, persistent insomnia has been linked to a range of health problems.
Researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of previous studies examining the relationship between insomnia and stroke. Nine studies investigated the association, involving more than 1.3 million people in total.
The analysis found that people with insomnia had a 26% higher risk of stroke and a 28% higher likelihood of hospitalization from any cause.
The researchers said the findings highlight the potential health consequences of persistent insomnia and its association with neurological problems.
However, they cautioned that the analysis identified an association rather than proving that insomnia directly causes stroke. Further research is needed to determine the mechanisms behind the relationship.
Previous research published in BMJ Open in March 2024 also found that regular exercise was associated with a lower risk of insomnia symptoms.
That study analyzed data from 4,339 people across nine European countries. Participants were assessed for their physical activity at the beginning of the study and again about a decade later, while researchers also collected information about symptoms of insomnia.
The findings showed that people who exercised at least twice a week were 22% less likely to experience insomnia symptoms.