Insomnia Linked to Increased Risk of Dementia, Stroke, and Mental Health Issues
A new study, which analyzed approximately 20 comprehensive review studies involving millions of participants across multiple countries, has found a significant link between insomnia and an increased risk of several major health issues. Published in the journal Sleep Medicine Reviews, the study indicates that individuals with insomnia have a 26% higher risk of stroke. Furthermore, the research revealed that those with insomnia were more prone to depression and attempted suicide compared to individuals without the sleep disorder. Insomnia, defined as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting quality sleep, is the most common sleep disorder in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The study also found that people with insomnia had nearly 30% higher odds of being hospitalized for various reasons. Experts emphasize that maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is crucial for healthy sleep, as an inconsistent schedule can confuse the brain's internal clock.