Men With Insomnia, Getting Less Sleep Have Higher Mortality Rates

Posted on June 10, 2009 in Latest News

Men with insomnia, having less than 6 hours of sleep are at risk of mortality – a new study reveals. This study was presented on June 8th, at the Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies. The study also revealed people having insomnia can have mortality rates similar to those with obstructive sleep apnea.

This study analyzed about 1741 men and women from Central Pennsylvania. Sleep studies were conducted and the men were followed up for 14 years and women for 10 years respectively. Based on the sleep duration, the participants were classified into 2 groups- the first group having sleep duration greater than 6 hours, and the second group having sleep duration lesser than 6 hours.

The study revealed that men with insomnia, getting less than 6 hours of sleep, had a mortality rate of 19.6 percent,while women with insomnia getting less than 6 hours of sleep had a mortality rate of 10.3 percent.

According to the lead author, Alexandros Vgontzas, MD, from Penn State College of Medicine, insomnia can lead to medical morbidity as well as mortality. The rates of medical morbidity and mortality in people with insomnia was similar to those suffering with with obstructive sleep apnea. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or medication can be used to prevent reduce mortality rates. Both these treatments can also be used in combintion to decrease mortality rates.

The authors of the study feel that people suffering with insomnia should consult their healthcare provider and get proper treatment.

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