Harvard study links long napping patterns to mortality risk in adults over 50

A long-term study led by researchers from Harvard and Mass General Brigham has identified a link between specific napping patterns and increased mortality rates in adults over the age of 50. Following 1,338 participants for up to 19 years, the research published in JAMA Network Open suggests that while short naps are likely harmless, excessive daytime sleep may serve as a clinical indicator of underlying health issues.

The study found that each additional hour of napping per day was associated with a 13% increase in mortality risk, and each additional nap per day was linked to a roughly 7% increase. Notably, individuals who napped in the morning faced an approximately 30% higher mortality risk compared to those who napped in the afternoon.

Researchers emphasized that these findings show an association rather than direct causation. It is possible that prolonged or frequent napping is a consequence of existing conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, or sleep disorders, rather than the cause of them. Dr. Chenlu Gao noted that monitoring these patterns could provide significant clinical value for the early detection of health problems.