What shortens life the most - scientists find unexpected factor

A study by American scientists has shown that lack of sleep may be more strongly linked to life expectancy than diet or physical activity. Among daily habits, only smoking showed a stronger association with longevity. The researchers emphasize that the study found a correlation but did not prove causation.

A study by American scientists from Oregon Health & Science University, published by ScienceAlert, has shown that lack of sleep may be significantly more strongly linked to life expectancy than diet or physical activity. The researchers compared data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for 2019–2025 with average life expectancy in different US counties. Sleep of less than seven hours per night was considered insufficient. The results showed a consistent association between chronic sleep deprivation and lower life expectancy. Among daily habits, only smoking showed a stronger association with longevity. When the researchers additionally included obesity and diabetes in the analysis, obesity also showed a stronger association than lack of sleep. One of the study's authors, Andrew McHill, admitted that he himself did not expect such a pronounced association. The researchers emphasize that the study found a correlation but did not prove causation. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that adults sleep at least seven hours, and McHill advises aiming for seven to nine hours.