The Interplay Between Sleep Disorders and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as the predominant cause of global mortality, resulting in a substantial annual loss of human lives. Among these conditions, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) stand out as the primary cause of death. The majority of CVD cases can be attributed to certain factors that, upon modification, have the potential to significantly decrease both the incidence and severity of the disease. For numerous years, the impact of sleep disorders on cardiovascular health has been a prominent subject of extensive discussion. Chronic sleep disturbances are known to have a range of negative health consequences, with the relationship between sleep apnea and hypertension being well-established through numerous studies. However, further exploration is needed to understand other disease associations with sleep apnea and to examine the impact of various sleep disorders, aside from sleep apnea, on cardiovascular health. This systematic review assesses the available evidence on the association between various sleep disorders and cardiovascular diseases by addressing the question: Do sleep disorders contribute to or exacerbate cardiovascular diseases? After a comprehensive review, we identified 122 articles. Following this initial review, seven papers directly aligned with our research topic. Subsequently, we meticulously assessed the remaining seven papers, all meeting our predetermined criteria. Our analysis showed a strong correlation between sleep disruptions and cardiovascular health. Numerous sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy, central sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea, and insomnia, have shown different effects on cardiovascular outcomes. Increased risks of illnesses such as acute coronary syndrome (ACS), hypertension, cardiovascular mortality, and coronary artery calcification were included in these consequences. This systematic review underscores the need for early identification and comprehensive management of sleep disturbances to mitigate their potential adverse effects on cardiovascular well-being. Integrating strategies that address sleep disorders and cardiovascular health is imperative in enhancing overall health outcomes. This study paves the way for more effective preventive and therapeutic approaches by focusing on the relationship between sleep disorders and cardiovascular diseases.