Study Links Snoring to Increased Risk of Hypertension and Heart Disease

A recent study conducted by sleep specialists at Flinders University has revealed a significant correlation between habitual snoring and an increased risk of hypertension, particularly among overweight middle-aged men. This groundbreaking research, published in the *Nature Digital Medicine* journal, utilized innovative home-based monitoring technologies to examine the relationship between snoring and blood pressure over an extended period, marking the largest study of its kind to date.

The study's lead author, Dr. Bastien Lechat, a researcher in the College of Medicine and Public Health at Flinders University, stated, "For the first time, we can objectively say that there is a significant link between regular night-time snoring and high blood pressure." The research found that approximately 15% of participants, primarily consisting of overweight males, reported snoring for more than 20% of the night on average. This habitual snoring was associated with elevated blood pressure and uncontrolled hypertension, highlighting the underestimated health risks of this common sleeping habit.

Notably, the findings indicate that individuals who snore regularly are almost twice as likely to suffer from uncontrolled hypertension. Furthermore, this risk doubles again in patients who also experience sleep apnoea, a condition characterized by abrupt breathing interruptions during sleep. Professor Danny Eckert, Director of Sleep Health at Flinders University and senior author of the study, emphasized the importance of recognizing snoring as a health concern, stating, "These results underline the critical need to consider snoring in the management of sleep-related health issues, especially hypertension."

The implications of hypertension are severe; it can lead to heart failure, stroke, heart disease, and kidney disease. The study employed advanced methods, including the use of FDA-registered home blood pressure monitors and sleep trackers placed under mattresses, to collect data from over 12,000 participants globally over nine months.

In a related study published in the *Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health*, researchers assessed the impact of irregular sleep patterns on health. Lead author Jean-Philippe Chaput from the University of Ottawa noted that inconsistent bedtimes and wake-up times significantly increase health risks. He advised maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, as deviations of more than an hour can lead to chronic health issues.

As snoring often coexists with sleep apnoea, the potential health risks associated with this condition cannot be overlooked. Dr. Lechat suggested that addressing snoring through therapeutic interventions could be pivotal in reducing hypertension and its associated risks. He stated, "The findings of this study pave the way to further investigate whether therapeutic interventions directed toward snoring can reduce hypertension and mitigate the risks."

For individuals experiencing snoring alongside symptoms such as poor sleep quality, excessive fatigue, or breathing difficulties during sleep, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended. The NHS advises maintaining a healthy weight, sleeping on one’s side, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and not using sleeping pills, which can exacerbate snoring.

As the research underscores the significance of snoring in relation to hypertension, it calls for heightened awareness and consideration of snoring in clinical practice and management of sleep disorders. This study not only provides crucial insights into the health implications of snoring but also sets the stage for future research aimed at improving treatment outcomes for those affected by related health issues.