Cardiologist Issues Stark Warning: Chronic Sleep Deprivation Significantly Increases Heart Risk
New York,NY – October 19,2025 – A leading cardiologist is sounding the alarm about the detrimental effects of insufficient sleep on cardiovascular health,citing recent research that links chronic sleep deprivation to a heightened risk of heart attack,stroke,and other serious cardiac events. Dr. Reginald Thompson, a specialist at New York Presbyterian Hospital, emphasizes that consistently getting less than the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night can inflict important damage on the heart, even in otherwise healthy individuals.
The growing prevalence of sleep disorders and lifestyle factors contributing to sleep loss pose a substantial public health concern. Approximately 35% of adults in the United States regularly experience short sleep duration, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.This widespread issue isn’t merely a matter of feeling tired; it directly impacts the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure, manage inflammation, and maintain a healthy heart rhythm. Without adequate rest,the cardiovascular system is forced into a state of prolonged stress,increasing the likelihood of developing life-threatening conditions.
Dr. Thompson explained that sleep deprivation disrupts the body’s natural restorative processes. “During sleep, your heart rate and blood pressure decrease, allowing your cardiovascular system to recover,” he stated.”When you consistently shortchange yourself on sleep, these vital functions remain elevated, putting a constant strain on your heart.” He further noted that insufficient sleep can also contribute to unhealthy habits like poor diet and lack of exercise,compounding the risk.
The cardiologist’s warning comes as new data reveals a concerning trend: a rise in cardiovascular disease among younger adults. While traditionally considered a condition affecting older populations, heart problems are now increasingly diagnosed in individuals in their 30s and 40s, a phenomenon experts attribute, in part, to modern lifestyle pressures and chronic sleep loss.
