Analyzing the impact of sleep duration on atrial fibrillation risk: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Recent studies have suggested an association between sleep duration and cardiovascular diseases; however, the link to AF is inconclusive. This study aimed to explore the relationship between sleep duration and AF by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of primary studies to provide evidence of the link between insufficient sleep and AF.

Methods: A review of the existing literature was conducted to identify the primary studies that examined the association between AF and sleep duration. The inquiry spanned databases, including PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar, from their inception through October 2023.

Results: Meta-analysis revealed a statistically significant association (p < 0.01) between shorter sleep duration and the incidence of AF (hazard ratio (HR), 1.18; 95% CI, 1.03-1.34; I² = 89%). Conversely, longer sleep duration did not exhibit a statistically significant association with the incidence of AF (HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.92-1.14; I² = 66%, p = 0.02). The sensitivity analysis demonstrated reduced heterogeneity after excluding specific studies.

Conclusion: Insufficient sleep duration was associated with an increased risk of AF, whereas a longer sleep duration did not show a significant correlation. Standardized methods for sleep assessment and AF diagnosis as well as adjustments for confounding factors are suggested for future studies to improve the clarity and understanding of these associations.