The researchers at this institution utilize Mendelian randomization to delve deeper into the connection between sleep duration and mortality in later life. While it is known that insufficient sleep is linked to higher mortality rates, the aim of this study is to establish causation rather than just correlation. By studying genetic variants and their impact on specific outcomes, the researchers hope to provide evidence that short sleep duration directly contributes to an increased risk of mortality, rather than being a mere side effect.
Observational studies have shown that poor sleep health is associated with various health risks, including cardiovascular issues, metabolic disorders, mental health problems, and overall mortality. However, it remains unclear whether there is a genetic or causal relationship between sleep health and lifespan. This study investigates the genetic association between different sleep behaviors (such as short sleep duration, long sleep duration, insomnia, and sleep chronotype) and lifespan, using genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary statistics. The results show a negative correlation between sleep duration time, insomnia, and lifespan.
Using two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) and multivariable MR analyses, the researchers found that genetically predicted short sleep duration is causally and negatively associated with lifespan, with effects partially mediated by conditions such as coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, and depression. On the other hand, insomnia showed no causal effects on lifespan. These findings highlight the detrimental impact of short sleep duration on lifespan and suggest that extending sleep may improve the physical health of individuals at risk of sleep deprivation. This study emphasizes the importance of addressing public health issues related to sleep duration and its impact on longevity.
For more information, refer to the article at: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-024-02826-x.
