Increased risk of dementia detected among individuals experiencing a prevalent sleep disorder, according to recent research findings
In a groundbreaking study published in Neurology, researchers from the Mayo Clinic have found a potential link between chronic insomnia and the development of dementia. The study, supported by the National Institutes of Health, GHR Foundation, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, and a grant from Sleep Number Corporation to the Mayo Clinic, suggests that chronic insomnia can increase the risk of dementia.
Dr. Diego Z. Carvalho, the author of the study, has highlighted the importance of this finding. Chronic insomnia, defined as a struggle to fall and/or stay asleep, was associated with a 40% increased risk of developing cognitive impairment and dementia. Over the course of the study, 14% of people with chronic insomnia developed mild cognitive impairment or dementia, compared to 10% of those who did not have the sleep disorder.
The study did not have instruments to assess the severity of insomnia at baseline or over time, and the researchers were unable to adjust for which patients received treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, such as CPAP therapy. However, the study did show that chronic insomnia seems to alter the structure of the brain by increasing white matter changes commonly seen in patients with vascular pathologies such as hypertension and diabetes.
These white matter spots are areas where small vessel disease may have damaged brain tissue, which have been linked to cerebrovascular disease. The study found that participants with chronic insomnia who reported sleeping more than usual had fewer white matter spots in the brain, suggesting a potential protective effect of adequate sleep.
The study also found that people with the APOE ε4 gene, which is linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer's, were more likely to show bigger declines in memory and thinking skills. This finding underscores the complex interplay between genetics, sleep, and cognitive health.
Dr. Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist at Jackson-Madison County General Hospital in Jackson, Tennessee, emphasized the importance of good sleep hygiene. He advised that anyone suffering from insomnia on a frequent basis should talk with their physician about ruling out potential medical reasons. Dr. Murray also emphasized the importance of maintaining good sleep habits, such as avoiding caffeinated beverages in the afternoon, cutting down on alcohol consumption, avoiding large meals or exercise before going to bed, and reducing exposure to electronics prior to bedtime.
The study adds to a growing body of evidence that sleep isn't just about rest, but also about brain resilience. As Dr. Carvalho stated, "Even a short period of chronic insomnia can lead to potential detrimental cognitive effects later in life." With this newfound understanding, it is crucial for individuals to prioritize their sleep health and consult with their healthcare providers if they are experiencing persistent sleep problems.
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