Staying Up Late Linked to Higher Heart Attack and Stroke Risk, Study Finds

A new study finds that regularly staying up late may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially among night owls.

People who are most active at night and stay up late are more likely to have poor cardiovascular health, the study shows. Night owls face a 16 percent higher risk of heart attack or stroke compared to early risers.

“Evening people often experience circadian misalignment, meaning their internal body clocks do not match natural day-night cycles or daily schedules,” said lead author Sina Kianersi of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School.

The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, analysed more than 300,000 adults, averaging 57 years old, to assess the impact of sleeping habits on cardiovascular health. About 8 percent of participants identified as “definitely evening people.”

Cardiovascular health was measured through weight, cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, diet, physical activity, smoking habits, and sleep quality. Night owls had a 79 percent higher prevalence of poor cardiovascular health, with risks stronger among women.

Experts say evening people often have modifiable behaviors that affect heart health, including poor diet, smoking, and inadequate sleep, suggesting lifestyle interventions could reduce risks.

Robust circadian rhythms align the body clock with the 24-hour day and help regulate key body functions. Disruptions, due to irregular sleep, shift work, or light exposure at night, have been linked to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Targeted programs for night owls, such as promoting consistent sleep schedules, healthy eating, and exercise, may improve cardiovascular outcomes, experts say, offering a roadmap for preventive care.

Researchers note that night owls are not inherently less healthy. With proper lifestyle changes, including sleep hygiene and diet, evening types can significantly lower their cardiovascular risk.

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