How sleep quality affects heart health as we age

Sleep pathology and cardiac aging

NIH-funded research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10976019

This study is looking at how sleep problems like sleep apnea might affect heart health as we age, and it's for people who want to understand the connection between their sleep quality and heart aging.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project IDNIH-10976019 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between sleep quality, specifically sleep apnea, and the aging of the heart. By utilizing advanced digital technologies and a unique collection of sleep and cardiovascular health data from a large cohort, the study aims to understand how poor sleep can accelerate heart aging and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Participants will undergo multiple overnight sleep assessments to gather objective data over time, allowing for a thorough analysis of sleep patterns and their impact on heart health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing sleep issues, particularly those with sleep apnea or related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients without sleep disorders or those who do not have cardiovascular risk factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing cardiovascular diseases linked to poor sleep quality.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a strong link between sleep quality and cardiovascular health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Worcester, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.