Daytime napping increases risk of death: dangerous duration named

An analysis of data from more than 300,000 people found a link between prolonged daytime napping (over 60 minutes) and a 30% increased risk of death from any cause and a 34% increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The study, presented at ESC Congress 2020, was observational. Short naps (up to 30–45 minutes) were not associated with risk and may be beneficial for sleep deprivation.

A large meta-analysis presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress ESC Congress 2020 found a statistical association between prolonged daytime napping and worse health outcomes. Researchers combined data from more than 20 previous studies, covering 313,651 people, of whom about 39% regularly napped. Napping longer than 60 minutes was associated with an approximately 30% increased risk of death from any cause and a 34% increased risk of cardiovascular disease compared to no napping. The authors emphasize that the study was observational and does not prove a direct causal link. The association persisted even among those who slept more than six hours at night, suggesting the results cannot be explained solely by compensation for chronic sleep deprivation. Short naps of less than an hour, conversely, were not associated with increased risk, and naps of up to 30–45 minutes may be beneficial for those lacking nighttime sleep. The article warns that a need for long daytime naps may indicate nighttime sleep disorders or other health problems.