Less sleep speeds up ageing of brain in adults
Shorter duration of sleep can lead to cognitive decline and diseases like Alzheimer’s
Research from Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School Singapore published earlier this year in the journal Sleep highlights new evidence that a lack of sleep speeds up ageing of the brain, leading to cognitive decline and the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
“Our findings relate short sleep to a marker of brain ageing,” said Dr June Lo, the lead author and a Duke-NUS Research Fellow, in a press release.
Study looks at brain volume
The study examined the data of 66 older Chinese adults who were put through structural MRI brain scans to measure brain volume. They also had their cognitive function tested every two years using neuropsychological assessments. Researchers tracked their sleep duration as well. Those who slept fewer hours showed evidence of faster ventricle enlargement and a decline in cognitive performance.
“Work done elsewhere suggests that seven hours a day for adults seems to be the sweet spot for optimal performance on computer-based cognitive tests,” said Professor Michael Chee, a senior author and director of the Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience at Duke-NUS. “In the coming years we hope to determine what’s good for cardio-metabolic and long term brain health too.”
Chee also said the results from the study aimed to fill a gap on risk factors among ageing populations. He hopes results from future work will spur changes to reduce disease.
“With Asia’s rapidly ageing populations, cardio-metabolic problems like diabetes will sky rocket if attention is not paid to modifiable risk factors,” Chee said. “Individually they make small, albeit significant contributions – but over time that effect matters.”
The news comes on the heels of two other recent studies involving sleep and mental capabilities. One study revealed it may be easier to learn a second language if you incorporate some verbal cueing during a snooze right after studying.
Further links:
Techtimes.com
Medicalnewstoday.com
Related Articles
“Tidal wave” of cancer predicted
WHO predicts doubling of annual cancer cases by year 2034
Read moreYou Ask, They Answer: Opioid Addiction
Patients with personality disorders, depression, anxiety or a history of alcohol or drug abuse are at high risk of opioid addiction
Read moreWorried about medical bills?
Mount Elizabeth Hospitals says patients can obtain a clear breakdown of their medical bills beforehand along with the coverage of several insurance options
Read moreLatest Articles
Medical Care
Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP): The Emerging of Exercise is Medicine
How Exercising can be a Medicine
Read moreMedical Care
Reversing type 2 Diabetes: Embracing Hope and Determination
Experience the remarkable journey of Ash and his grandfather Atok as they conquer type 2 diabetes through unconventional methods, showcasing the power of love and determination over adversity.
Read moreMedical Care
Bladder Cancer: What You Need to Know
Empower yourself with our comprehensive guide to bladder cancer. Explore symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and supportive resources to safeguard your health.
Read more
