Less than six hours sleep per night may increase heart disease risk, study says

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology suggests that sleeping less than 6 hours a night may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis. The research, which involved tracking 4,000 Spanish adults using coronary ultrasound and CT scans, found that those with poor sleep quality or less sleep were more likely to develop atherosclerosis. Women who slept more than 8 hours also showed increased risk. While the study couldn't establish causation, it highlighted significant associations between sleep patterns and cardiovascular health.

What is the increased risk of cardiovascular disease for people who sleep less than 6 hours compared to those who sleep 7 to 8 hours?

• 10% more likely

• 15% more likely

• 27% more likely

• 50% more likely

What condition is associated with poor sleep quality and lack of sleep?

• Obesity

• Hypertension

• Atherosclerosis

• Diabetes

How did researchers monitor artery health in the study participants?

• Blood tests

• MRI scans

• Coronary ultrasound and CT scans

• X-rays

What percentage more likely are adults with poor quality sleep to have atherosclerosis compared to those with good quality sleep?

• 60%

• 50%

• 34%

• 20%

What was a specific finding regarding women and sleep duration in the study?

• Women who slept less than 6 hours had no increased risk

• Women who slept more than 9 hours had no increased risk

• Women who slept more than 8 hours had an increased chance of atherosclerosis

• Women who slept exactly 7 hours had the highest risk