Exercise may not just be good for sleep; It can also help lower cardiovascular event risk

Curr Probl Cardiol. 2024 Jan;49(1 Pt B):102166. doi: 10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2023.102166. Epub 2023 Oct 21.

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) stand at the forefront of global mortality, presenting an immense and urgent public health challenge on a global scale. Effectively addressing the associated risk factors is pivotal in not only preventing but also stabilizing and potentially reversing the progression of these conditions. Emerging research illuminates a compelling correlation between sleep disorders and CVD. Clinically, individuals afflicted with existing CVD or those possessing risk factors frequently grapple with sleep disturbances, exacerbating their conditions, particularly in severe cases where disease progression is accelerated. Even among ostensibly healthy individuals, chronic sleep deprivation exacts a toll on cardiovascular function. The strategic implementation of exercise interventions emerges as a potent tool in enhancing sleep quality, surpassing the efficacy of pharmaceutical treatments. Furthermore, the maintenance of optimal sleep patterns significantly contributes to lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This comprehensive review delves deeply into the intricate relationship between exercise and the amelioration of cardiovascular disease risk associated with sleep. Moreover, it meticulously elucidates the complex mechanisms through which exercise operates, effectively reducing cardiovascular disease risk from the unique perspective of sleep science.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / etiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / prevention & control
  • Exercise
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors
  • Sleep
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / complications
  • Sleep Wake Disorders* / therapy