New research is underscoring what many health experts have long suspected: sleep is critical for longevity. A newly published study reveals insufficient sleep is a meaningful predictor of reduced lifespan, ranking as a more ample risk factor than diet, exercise, or social isolation-second only to smoking. Analyzing data from the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System between 2019-2025, researchers found consistently sleeping less than seven hours per night correlates with a shorter life expectancy, prompting calls to prioritize sleep alongside established health pillars.
L’ESSENTIEL
- A new study has revealed a significant link between insufficient sleep and a reduced lifespan.
- Sleep’s impact on longevity was found to be more substantial than other risk factors – including poor diet, lack of exercise, and social isolation – with the exception of smoking.
- Scientists suggest the ideal amount of sleep is between seven and nine hours each night.
Getting at least seven hours of sleep each night may be crucial for a longer life, according to research published in the journal SLEEP Advances.
Sleep is the Second Leading Factor in Reducing Lifespan, After Smoking
Researchers analyzed data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), collected between 2019 and 2025 across all U.S. states by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The goal was to compare the impact of insufficient sleep – defined as less than seven hours per night – with other well-known risk factors like smoking, diet, and physical inactivity.
The study found a significant association between getting too little sleep and a shorter lifespan. Notably, sleep deprivation proved to be a more impactful risk factor than an unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, or social isolation.
Aim for 7 to 9 Hours of Sleep to Boost Longevity
“I didn’t expect such a strong correlation with lifespan,” said Andrew McHill, the study’s lead author, in a statement. We knew sleep was important, but this research confirms that, if possible, getting between seven and nine hours of sleep each night is essential.”
While the study was observational and cannot prove cause and effect, researchers suggest that consistently sleeping less than seven hours a night could negatively affect cardiovascular health, immune function, and brain health.
“These findings highlight the need to prioritize sleep just as much as we prioritize diet and exercise, McHill emphasized. We often treat sleep as something we can sacrifice, even catching up on weekends. However, a good night’s sleep not only improves your well-being but also contributes to a longer life.”
To improve sleep quality, experts recommend maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, limiting screen time before bed, and incorporating relaxing activities into your evening routine.
