Sleep Deprivation Linked to Shortened Lifespan in US Study
New research from Oregon Health and Science University suggests that sleeping fewer than seven hours nightly may significantly reduce life expectancy, with implications for public health policy across developed nations including Australia.
The comprehensive study, published in SLEEP Advances, analysed data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention between 2019 and 2025, examining sleep patterns across American counties and their correlation with life expectancy rates.
Consistent Pattern Across Demographics
Researchers found that insufficient sleep was associated with reduced lifespan across all socioeconomic settings, from affluent urban areas to disadvantaged rural communities. Counties with higher proportions of residents sleeping less than seven hours nightly consistently showed lower life expectancy rates.
"I didn't expect it to be so strongly correlated to life expectancy," said Associate Professor Andrew McHill, senior author of the study. "We've always thought sleep is important, but this research really drives that point home. People really should strive to get seven to nine hours of sleep if at all possible."
Broader Health Implications
The research reinforces established medical understanding that adequate sleep supports brain recovery, immune system function, memory consolidation, and physical health maintenance. Sleep deprivation increases risks of chronic conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity.
The study identified multiple factors contributing to sleep insufficiency: smoking, obesity, diabetes, physical inactivity, food insecurity, unemployment, educational attainment, healthcare access, and social connectivity.
Warning Signs and Solutions
Medical professionals highlight key indicators of sleep deprivation: persistent daytime fatigue, concentration difficulties, mood instability, frequent illness, elevated blood pressure, and unintentional weight changes.
Recommended strategies for improving sleep quality include maintaining consistent sleep schedules, creating optimal sleep environments, limiting screen exposure before bedtime, avoiding heavy meals or alcohol consumption late in the evening, and incorporating moderate daily physical activity.
Policy Considerations
The findings suggest that sleep health represents a significant public health challenge requiring systematic attention from healthcare systems and policymakers. As workplace demands and lifestyle pressures continue to affect sleep patterns globally, the research underscores the need for comprehensive approaches to promoting healthy sleep habits across communities.
The study's methodology, examining county-level data across diverse populations, provides robust evidence for the relationship between sleep duration and longevity, with potential applications for health policy development in Australia and other developed nations facing similar demographic and lifestyle challenges.