A groundbreaking study from sleep scientists at Flinders University in South Australia has revealed a significant connection between regular snoring and elevated blood pressure, shedding new light on the potential health risks associated with sleep disorders.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, occurs when the force of blood against the walls of blood vessels is consistently too high. This condition can lead to serious cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and heart disease. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing snoring as a potential factor in managing hypertension.
The research monitored 12,287 participants over a six-month period using home-based sleep technologies. Findings showed that 15 percent of participants snored for more than 20 percent of the night on average. Those with high snoring levels had an average of 3.8 mmHg higher systolic blood pressure and 4.5 mmHg higher diastolic blood pressure compared to participants who did not snore.
“For the first time, we can objectively say that there is a significant connection between regular nighttime snoring and high blood pressure,” said Bastien Lechat, lead author of the research from the College of Medicine and Public Health at Flinders University. “These results emphasize the significance of considering snoring as a factor in healthcare and treatment for sleep-related issues, especially in the context of managing hypertension.”
This study is notable for being the first to utilize multiple-night, home-based monitoring over an extended period to investigate the link between snoring and hypertension. The participant group was predominantly middle-aged individuals, with 88 percent being male, highlighting the potential need for further research across more diverse populations.
According to the World Health Organization, hypertension affects an estimated 1.28 billion adults aged 30 to 79 worldwide, with 46 percent unaware of their condition. The findings of this study underscore the need for increased awareness and proactive management of sleep-related factors that could contribute to hypertension.
Healthcare professionals and individuals alike may benefit from considering snoring not just as a nuisance but as a potential indicator of cardiovascular health risks. With hypertension being a significant health concern globally, these findings have implications for public health strategies and personal well-being.
Reference(s):
Australian study finds link between snoring, elevated blood pressure
cgtn.com
