New Insights from Semmelweis University: How Sleep Duration Impacts Your Lifespan

Too little sleep or too much sleep can be risky for your health. A study by Semmelweis University found that both short and long sleep durations can increase the risk of mortality and stroke. People who sleep less than seven hours or more than nine hours a night are more vulnerable.

The findings are alarming. Those sleeping less than seven hours a night face a 14% higher risk of dying. Meanwhile, those who regularly sleep over nine hours have a 34% higher mortality risk compared to those who sleep seven to eight hours.

This study reviewed data from over 2.1 million adults, examining various sleep durations across 79 studies. Interestingly, there are notable gender differences: men who sleep under seven hours have a 16% increased risk of death, while those sleeping more than eight hours face a 36% increase. Women sleeping less than seven hours see a 14% increase, but those sleeping longer than eight hours encounter a staggering 44% increase in mortality risk. Factors like hormones and cardiovascular health may play a role, but the exact reasons remain unclear.

Chronic insomnia is the most common sleep condition. Research suggests about one-third of people experience insomnia at some point, with around 10% living with chronic issues. The rise of this problem has made sleep deprivation a major public health concern. Many individuals struggle to get enough rest due to busy schedules, screen time, and stress. Shift workers, in particular, are more affected. Lack of sleep can lead to serious health problems, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and a weakened immune system.

Dr. György Purebl, a co-author of the study, highlighted our struggle with sleep. “We are facing a sleep epidemic,” he noted. Despite growing awareness, behaviors have not significantly changed over the past decade. Exposure to blue light from screens and the pressure to be always available disrupt our natural sleep patterns.

A related study by these researchers found that individuals who sleep only five to six hours per night have a 29% higher likelihood of experiencing a stroke. Those who sleep longer—over eight hours—face a 46% increased risk of stroke and a 45% higher chance of dying from stroke-related causes.

Dr. Balázs Győrffy, senior author of both studies, emphasized the importance of addressing modifiable risk factors like sleep in stroke prevention. “Sleep duration should be considered in strategies to reduce healthcare burdens,” he said.

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 15 million people worldwide experience a stroke each year. Out of those, five million die, and others may suffer lasting disabilities like paralysis or cognitive impairment. Controlling blood pressure and avoiding smoking can prevent many strokes. Experts recommend creating a consistent sleep routine, reducing screen time before bed, and ensuring a calm sleeping environment. Additionally, moderating caffeine and alcohol intake, along with regular exercise, can foster better sleep.

This research is part of the Semmelweis Study, which examines lifestyle factors—including sleep—on health among university staff. The goal is to enhance public health recommendations.

For more information on public health and stroke prevention strategies, visit the World Health Organization.

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