Sleep Deprivation Linked to Reduced Life Expectancy

Lack of sleep is now recognized as a major contributor to decreased life expectancy in the U.S., second only to smoking, according to a recent analysis published in the journal SLEEP Advances. This study was led by Dr. Andrew McHill, an associate professor at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU).

The researchers analyzed data from a CDC study conducted across more than 3,000 U.S. counties from 2019 to 2025. They focused on the relationship between sleep habits and longevity.

According to guidelines from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Society for Sleep Research, adequate sleep is classified as at least seven hours nightly. The study factored in other known predictors of mortality, such as diet and physical inactivity, while comparing each county’s life expectancy with the percentage of residents reporting sufficient sleep.

The findings indicated that counties with higher reports of sleep deprivation tended to have shorter life expectancies. This trend was consistent across different states and years, even when controlling for other lifestyle factors.

Dr. McHill mentioned that the strong correlation between sleep and life expectancy was unexpected. Despite the known health benefits of sleep, this study revealed a more significant association than previously thought.

“We’ve always felt that sleep is crucial, and this study underscores that belief. People should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep when they can,” he added. The research further builds on the existing evidence linking longer sleep duration to improved health outcomes, including mortality risk and brain function.

This analysis is notable for mapping the relationship between sleep duration and life expectancy at a detailed county level over multiple years, establishing consistent connections across various communities.

However, the study does have its limitations, such as reliance on self-reported data, which might introduce biases. The researchers also noted that while they could show an association, they couldn’t determine causation or explore the biological mechanisms underlying the findings.

Despite controlling for several lifestyle variables, other unknown factors may also affect both sleep habits and life expectancy. The authors pointed out that sleep duration doesn’t encompass the full picture, as aspects like sleep quality and regularity can also significantly affect long-term outcomes.

They emphasized the importance of placing sleep on par with other health priorities like diet and exercise. Dr. McHill stated, “This study indicates we need to consider sleep as essential as our fitness and nutrition choices. Quality sleep not only improves well-being but can also prolong life.”

The study was primarily carried out by graduate students from the Sleep, Chronobiology, and Health Laboratory at OHSU’s School of Nursing and received funding from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, along with institutional support from OHSU.