Sleep Disturbances May Predict Heart Risks

Main Category: Cardiovascular / Cardiology
Also Included In: Sleep / Sleep Disorders / Insomnia
Article Date: 15 Mar 2007 - 7:00 PDT

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New research shows sleep disruptions as potential markers of prothrombotic cardiovascular risks. In a study from the University of California San Diego, researchers performed full-night polysomnography in 135 unmedicated patients, who had no history of sleep disorders. Three different types of antigens, morning fasting plasma levels of von Willebrand Factor (VWF), soluble tissue factor (sTF), and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1), and D-dimer were gathered and determined. Also, statistical analyses were adjusted for age, gender, ethnicity, body mass index, blood pressure, and smoking history. Results showed that measures of sleep fragmentation and sleep efficiency were related to VWF and sTF, and apnea-related measures were related to PAI-1. Researchers conclude that sleep disruptions, even in a relatively healthy population, are associated with prothrombotic changes. This study appears in the March issue of CHEST, the peer-reviewed journal of the American College of Chest Physicians.

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News briefs from the journal Chest, March 2007

Contact: Jennifer Stawarz
American College of Chest Physicians

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