Insomnia, Sleep Loss & Diabetes Risk

A new study suggests that people suffering from chronic insomnia and sleep loss may be at risk for type 2 diabetes.

The study involved 1,741 men and women from central Pennsylvania. They were randomly selected for the study. Their sleep was monitored by overnight sleep study in a sleep lab.

Results show that having chronic insomnia for a year or longer was associated with a higher risk for diabetes; the risk was not increased in people with milder insomnia.

The highest risk of diabetes was in people with chronic insomnia who slept for five hours or less; they were almost three times more likely to have diabetes. People with chronic insomnia who slept five to six hours were two times more likely to have diabetes.

The research team also has performed other analyses of this group of people. Their studies have linked chronic insomnia and sleep loss with an increased risk of hypertension; in men they also have found an increased risk of death.

In August the Sleep Education blog reported on the link between sleep loss and diabetes.

Proven treatments for insomnia are available. Both cognitive behavioral therapy and medications are effective.

A board-certified sleep specialist can determine which treatment is best for you. Contact an AASM-accredited sleep disorders center if you have an ongoing problem with insomnia.