Archive · 11 Jan 2026
Study Links Sleep Duration to Lifespan
Scientists did a big study to see how sleep affects how long people live.
They found that people who sleep less than 7 hours a night might not live as long.
Sleep is really important for your health, even more than what you eat or how much you exercise.
The scientists say you should try to sleep 7 to 9 hours every night.
They also give tips on how to sleep better, like keeping your room dark and cool, not looking at screens before bed, and not eating heavy meals late at night.
Getting good sleep can help you feel better and live longer.
A study by Oregon Health & Science University found a strong link between sleep duration and life expectancy.
People who sleep less than 7 hours a night may have a shorter lifespan.
Sleep was found to be more strongly correlated to life expectancy than diet or physical activity, with smoking being the only factor with a higher influence.
The study analyzed survey data from the CDC collected between 2019 and 2025 across all U.S. states.
Experts recommend maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, limiting screen time before bed, practicing mindful eating habits, engaging in daily exercise, and using relaxation techniques to improve sleep quality.
- Who
- Researchers from Oregon Health & Science University
- What
- A study linking sleep duration to life expectancy
- When
- Survey data collected between 2019 and 2025
- Where
- United States
- Why
- To understand the impact of sleep on longevity
- Study Conducted By
- Oregon Health & Science University
- Published In
- SLEEP Advances
- Survey Data Source
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Recommended Sleep Duration
- 7-9 hours nightly
- Key Finding
- Sleep duration more strongly correlated to life expectancy than diet or physical activity
- Senior Author
- Andrew McHill, Ph.D.
- Study Period
- 2019-2025
- Ideal Bedroom Temperature
- 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit