Sleep Disorders as a Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease: A Comprehensive Review

Background. Sleep disorders represent a heterogeneous group of conditions that impair sleep quality, duration, and architecture, leading to significant daytime dysfunction and increased global morbidity. Epidemiological data indicate that approximately 30–40% of adults experience sleep disturbances, including insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which are increasingly recognized as modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Aim. The aim of this narrative review was to synthesize current evidence on the association between sleep disorders and major cardiovascular outcomes and to identify the biological mechanisms underlying these relationships. Material and methods. A narrative review of the literature was conducted using PubMed, ScienceDirect, JAMA Network, OUP, and open-access repositories. Epidemiological studies, cohort studies, and meta-analyses evaluating the impact of insomnia, sleep-disordered breathing, and circadian rhythm disturbances on hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and stroke were analyzed. Results. The reviewed evidence demonstrates that insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea are consistently associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly hypertension, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and stroke. The underlying mechanisms include sympathetic nervous system overactivation, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and dysregulation of glucose and lipid metabolism. Conclusions. Sleep disorders have great effects on the cardiovascular system and should be considered independent, modifiable risk factors for CVD. Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders may play a crucial role in cardiovascular disease prevention and risk reduction.