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Sleep disturbance increases risks of malignancy
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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A study was conducted at Harvard University to study sleep disorders. As a result, scientists came to the conclusion that sleep problems increase the risk of cancer. Women are more susceptible to developing breast cancer, and men have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. All the data obtained were presented at the annual conference organized by the American Association for Cancer Research.
The study in this area lasted seven years, all the work was carried out in Iceland, where more than 900 volunteers were selected. All participants in the experiment were regularly examined from 2002 to 2009. All volunteers had sleep disorders for at least several years. In 111 participants, scientists discovered prostate cancer, of which 24 people had a rapidly progressing disease and were already life-threatening.
At the same time, a similar study was conducted for women who suffered from insomnia or other forms of sleep disorders. As it turned out, the women's bodies were also subject to the development of cancerous tumors, and oncology mainly affected the mammary glands.
Scientists explain the results obtained quite simply. In the human body, lack of sleep leads to the fact that the level of melatonin decreases. This hormone is also called the "night hormone" and is produced only in a sleeping person. The hormone is a natural sleeping pill and helps the body to relax faster. Additional studies have established that the higher the level of melatonin in the body, the lower the risk of developing cancer.
In order to normalize the hormone level, scientists recommend adjusting the daily routine so that the night's rest lasts at least 7 hours, and in the event that sleep disorders appear, immediately seek help from the appropriate specialist. Usually, insomnia at the initial stage is treated quite simply, in most cases, making some changes to the lifestyle helps and the problem disappears by itself.
Usually, for insomnia, doctors recommend limiting (or completely eliminating) products containing caffeine (coffee, chocolate, cola, some types of tea). It is best to have dinner with vegetables and dairy dishes at least three hours before bedtime. It is better not to take any medications before bedtime (the only exception is sedatives). Before bedtime, it is good to take a 20-30 minute walk in the fresh air, and it is better to avoid watching movies, reading books and video games. The bed should be comfortable enough, which will not only normalize sleep, but also avoid a number of problems with the musculoskeletal system. It is recommended to sleep without night lights, with well-closed windows, since melatonin is produced more actively in the dark. You should also give up daytime sleep, and it is best to go to bed and get up in the morning at the same time.
At the same time, doctors, according to earlier studies, warn that sleeping more than 9 hours a day can also harm the body.
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