Study Shows Strong Link Between Healthy Sleep and Reduced Risk of Post-COVID-19 Condition

Researchers of a recent study investigated the association between multidimensional sleep health and the risk of post-COVID-19 condition (PCC). The study included participants from the Nurses’ Health Study II who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Sleep health was measured before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, and PCC was self-reported during one-year follow up. The results showed that women with healthier sleep scores had a lower risk of developing PCC. Specifically, those with the healthiest sleep scores had a 30% lower risk compared with those with the least healthy sleep scores. No significant differences were found based on healthcare worker status. Additionally, no or minimal daytime dysfunction before the pandemic and good sleep quality during the pandemic were independently associated with a lower risk of PCC.

These findings suggest that healthy sleep measured prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic may protect against PCC. Further research is needed to explore whether interventions targeting sleep health can prevent or improve PCC symptoms.

Reference: Wang S, Huang T, Weisskopf MG, Kang JH, Chavarro JE, Roberts AL. Multidimensional Sleep Health Prior to SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Risk of Post–COVID-19 Condition. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(5):e2315885. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.15885

Link: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2805380?resultClick=1