0
0
March 8, 2025 – New Orleans – Teenagers who fail to get the recommended amount of sleep may be at an increased risk of developing high blood pressure, according to preliminary research presented at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology, Prevention, Lifestyle & Cardiometabolic Health Scientific Sessions 2025. The conference, taking place March 6-9 in New Orleans, highlights the latest findings on population health, wellness, and lifestyle implications.
According to the American Heart Association’s 2025 Statistical Update, poor sleep is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the U.S., surpassing all cancers and chronic respiratory diseases combined. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that teenagers get 8 to 10 hours of sleep per night; however, studies indicate that the average high school student sleeps only 6.5 hours per school night.
Study Insights and Findings
A team of researchers examined over 400 teenagers from the Penn State Child Cohort to analyze the relationship between sleep patterns and blood pressure. Participants self-reported symptoms of insomnia via a questionnaire before undergoing an overnight polysomnography—a lab-based sleep study using sensors to measure sleep duration. Researchers also recorded three consecutive blood pressure measurements taken two to three hours before the sleep study began.
Key Findings:
- Teens who reported insomnia and slept fewer than 7.7 hours were five times more likely to develop clinical hypertension than those who had no sleep issues and obtained sufficient rest.
- Those who slept fewer than 7.7 hours but did not report insomnia were nearly three times more likely to have elevated blood pressure.
- Teenagers who reported insomnia but still slept an adequate number of hours did not show a higher risk of elevated blood pressure or stage 2 hypertension.
The study’s senior author, Dr. Julio Fernandez-Mendoza, a professor at Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, emphasized that these findings highlight the need for further exploration into adolescent sleep health. “We know that insufficient sleep is linked to high blood pressure in adults, but these results suggest that the same relationship may exist in teenagers. Addressing sleep problems early could help prevent cardiovascular risks later in life.”
The Role of Healthy Sleep Patterns
Axel Robinson, the study’s first author and a senior at Pelham Memorial High School in New York, contributed to the research through a high school science program. “I have always been personally interested in insomnia and was able to overcome my own struggles with it through research and therapy,” Robinson shared.
Health experts stress the importance of maintaining good sleep hygiene to prevent long-term cardiovascular risks. Dr. Brooke Aggarwal, an assistant professor at Columbia University Medical Center and an expert in sleep health, was not involved in the study but reinforced the message: “Setting healthy sleep patterns in adolescence can positively impact heart health into adulthood. Poor sleep habits formed during teenage years often persist and increase long-term cardiovascular risks.”
Strategies for improving sleep include:
- Establishing consistent bedtime routines
- Reducing screen time before bed
- Avoiding caffeine and heavy meals late at night
- Incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines
A Call for Awareness and Action
As daylight saving time begins on March 9, 2025, experts encourage families to discuss the importance of sleep and gradually adjust sleep schedules to ensure sufficient rest. “Many people struggle with the time change, and teenagers are particularly vulnerable due to their natural sleep cycles. Planning ahead can help mitigate the impact on sleep and overall health,” said Aggarwal.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on preliminary research findings and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals experiencing sleep disturbances or health concerns should consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
Source: American Heart Association
