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Medical News Today
4 days ago
- Health
- Medical News Today
What might your napping habits say about your health?
Sleep quality and duration is closely linked to physical and mental should aim to get 7–9 hours' sleep a night, which can be a challenge, particularly as we get compensate, many people nap during the day, but new research suggests that this may not be beneficial.A study has found a link between daytime napping and increased risk of all-cause mortality in middle-aged and older researchers suggest that napping may be an indicator of underlying health issues, rather than directly causing mortality, although their observational study cannot prove Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that adults get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep a night to maintain physical and mental sufficient sleep can lower a person's risk of developing a number of health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and people age, getting a good night's sleep can become more difficult, leading to daytime napping to make up for lost night time slumbers. However, a new study in middle-aged and older adults suggests that daytime napping, particularly around the middle of the day, is linked to a higher risk of death from any study, which was presented at Sleep 2025 — the 39th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS), held in Seattle, WA, between June 8–11 — cannot prove a causative link but suggests that further research is needed into links between daytime napping and abstract of the study is available in Sleep, the journal of the Sleep Research Society, though its full results are yet to be published in a peer-reviewed MacSweeney, MD, CEO and consultant neuroradiologist at Re:Cognition Health, who was not involved in this study, told Medical News Today that:'These findings are significant because they suggest that daytime napping patterns could serve as early markers of declining health or disrupted sleep architecture in older adults. While previous research has focused on nighttime sleep duration and quality, this study expands the scope by identifying the timing, length and variability of naps as potential indicators of all-cause mortality risk. […] the findings underscore the importance of viewing sleep as a 24-hour cycle, where daytime behaviours are just as telling as those during the night.'When and how long you nap is linked to death riskThe study used data from 86,565 participants in the UK Biobank. At the start, participants had a mean age of 63 years, 57% were female, and none had a history of shift participants completed 7 days of actigraphy monitoring — continuous wearing of a wristwatch-like device that tracks activity to monitor sleeping and waking times. The researchers used this data to identify frequency, timing and duration of daytime recorded mean nap duration between 9 am and 7 pm, variability in nap duration for each individual across days, and timing of naps within the 2-hour time windows of 9–11 am, 11 am–1 pm, 1–3 pm, 3–5 pm, and 5–7 adjusting for demographics, body mass index (BMI), smoking, alcohol consumption, comorbidities, nighttime sleep duration, and chronotype, the researchers assessed associations between napping patterns and all-cause mortality during the 8-year nap duration for all participants was 0.40 hours, with a variation in nap length of 0.39 hours for each individual. People took the most naps between 9 and 11 am (34%), with 10% between 11 and 1, 14% between 1 and 3 pm, 19% between 3 and 5 pm, and 22% between 5 and 7 pm. During the 8-year follow-up, 2,950 participants died (3.4% of the total). For those who died, mean survival from the start was 4.19 researchers found that those who died during follow up took longer naps, had more variation in their nap times, and were more likely to nap between 11 am and 3 commented that: 'This study is a reminder that napping is not inherently negative, but changes in napping behaviour, particularly longer and irregular naps, can signal evolving health concerns. It reinforces the need for clinicians to ask about daytime sleep as part of a routine assessment, especially in older adults.''It also opens the door to further research into the neurobiological and physiological changes that may link daytime sleep patterns to mortality, particularly in relation to early-stage dementia, inflammation, or metabolic instability,' she told might napping habits be linked to mortality?Previous research has suggested that short daytime naps may be beneficial to health, potentially lowering systolic blood pressure, but long daytime naps are associated with higher BMI, waist circumference, blood glucose and blood recent study suggests that excessive daytime napping is linked to a higher risk of these, as well as the latest study, are observational, so cannot show a causative Kelley, MD, JD, triple-board-certified in Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery (ENT), Obesity Medicine, and Lifestyle Medicine, and co-founder and CEO of Side Health, who was not involved in the current research, agreed that the study cannot establish explained why there might be an association between daytime naps and higher mortality:'This may be because individuals with higher comorbid conditions are more likely to experience lower energy levels during the day or require naps. Alternatively, naps may be more frequently needed for those who are not getting enough sleep at night, which can lead to an increase in co-morbid conditions. Further research will be necessary to identify stronger associations between sleep and mortality.'MacSweeney agreed, noting that, '[g]iven the observational design of the study, it is more plausible that excessive or irregular napping is a symptom rather than a cause of underlying health conditions.''In this context,' she told us, 'excessive napping likely functions as a clinical red flag rather than a direct contributor to mortality.'7 expert tips to improve nighttime sleepThere are several measures you can take to try and get a better night's sleep, so that you are less likely to need those daytime recommended the following evidence-based strategies:establishing a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekendslimiting caffeine and alcohol, especially in the eveningcreating a calming bedtime routine, free from screens and overstimulationincreasing daytime exposure to natural light to strengthen circadian rhythmsmanaging medical conditions such as pain, heart failure or respiratory issues that may disrupt sleeptreating underlying sleep disorders like sleep apnea or restless legs syndromeexercising regularly, but avoiding vigorous activity close to cautioned that, '[i]f excessive sleepiness persists despite good sleep hygiene, a clinical sleep assessment is recommended.''[The new] study is essential to remind medical workers to ask patients and caretakers about individuals' sleep and their quality of sleep. Establishing good sleep habits may help you maintain healthier, longer sleep.'– Kanwar Kelley, MD, JD
Fashion Value Chain
6 days ago
- Science
- Fashion Value Chain
PolyU Nurtures Future Tech Talent Through Fun-Tech 2025
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) successfully concluded the 'Fun-Tech Competition 2024/25,' an initiative designed to nurture future innovation and technology (I&T) leaders by enhancing digital skills among secondary school students. Supported by the Innovation and Technology Commission and organised by PolyU's Department of Applied Social Sciences (APSS), the year-long project engaged over 1,000 students from 29 schools, offering immersive experiences in technologies like VR, AR, and RFID. The initiative included academic conferences, guided tours, online classes, and workshops, helping students grasp cutting-edge digital tools and apply them creatively. The highlight was a competition where participants created VR videos or developed RFID-based applications, encouraging real-world innovation. Divided into junior and senior secondary levels, the contest focused on applying technology to everyday life and social challenges. The award ceremony, held at PolyU, was graced by Dr. Jeff Sze, Under Secretary for Education (HKSAR), alongside Prof. Wing-tak Wong, Deputy President and Provost of PolyU, and Prof. Eric Chui, Head of APSS and Co-Director of PReCIT. The event celebrated students' creativity and recognized their potential to drive future I&T breakthroughs. 'Digital tools empower students to explore infinite possibilities,' said Dr. Sze. 'This competition not only sparked their curiosity but helped them build problem-solving skills essential for the future.' Prof. Wong praised the integration of educational technology with STEAM learning, noting how the competition bridged PolyU's expertise with secondary schools to create a collaborative knowledge-sharing platform. Prof. Chui highlighted how students used technology to spotlight social issues, aligning with APSS's mission to develop empathetic, socially responsible leaders. Project leader Dr. Rodney Chu commended students' resilience through evaluations, rehearsals, and live Q&A sessions, and noted the competition also supported teacher development through training workshops. Winning schools included: VR Video Competition (Senior): SKH Lui Ming Choi Secondary School (Champion), St. Stephen's Church College (1st Runner-Up) VR Video (Junior): STFA Cheng Yu Tung Secondary School, St. Clare's Girls' School RFID Application Design (Senior): Po Leung Kuk Ngan Po Ling College and Salesians of Don Bosco Ng Siu Mui Secondary School (Co-Champions), Po Chiu Catholic Secondary School (1st Runner-Up) RFID (Junior): Chinese Y.M.C.A. Secondary School and Ju Ching Chu Secondary School (Yuen Long) (Co-Champions) The event concluded with a Teaching and Learning Summit, where Prof. Manuel Castro from Spain's National University of Distance Education shared insights on STEM tools and remote labs, sparking dialogue on educational innovation in schools. The Fun-Tech Competition 2024/25 has not only helped students master emerging technologies but also fostered collaboration among students, teachers, schools, and industry, cultivating a generation of I&T talent grounded in both technical knowledge and humanistic values.
Free Malaysia Today
7 days ago
- Health
- Free Malaysia Today
Bedtime procrastination could be a sign of something more serious
A study says bedtime procrastination in young adults is associated with negative emotions. (Envato Elements pic) PARIS : Almost everyone's had those moments of extreme lethargy when they wake up and all they want to do is stay snuggled up in bed for hours. Gen Z has even turned it into a social media trend known as 'bed rotting.' But if getting out of bed becomes a daily struggle or is associated with chronic fatigue, this difficulty can become worrying and, in some cases, even a sign of depression. But endlessly putting off going to bed could be a cause for concern too, especially among young people, according to a new study published in the journal Sleep and presented at the annual meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS) on sleep, taking place from June 8 to 11 in the US. The study looked at a group of 390 young adults with an average age of 24. Participants were asked to keep a sleep diary for 14 days and fill out several questionnaires to better understand their emotions and determine their chronotype, a term used to describe whether someone is more of a 'morning person' or a 'night owl.' The aim was to assess their procrastination at bedtime, i.e., delaying going to sleep without this being related to external obligations or constraints (such as working late or being away from home). Although delaying going to bed can be explained by other factors, such as poor time management or a lack of self-discipline, the survey results suggested that it may also be associated with recurrent anxiety or even depressive tendencies. The responses of volunteers with a strong tendency to procrastinate at bedtime reflect a higher level of neuroticism (a tendency to experience negative emotions), as well as lower levels of conscientiousness and extraversion. 'Our study demonstrated that individuals who habitually procrastinate their bedtime were actually less likely to report seeking out exciting, engaging, or enjoyable activities,' said lead author Steven Carlson, a doctoral candidate in the psychology department at University of Utah in Salt Lake City, quoted in a news release. In light of these findings, the researcher suggests exploring emotional health as a potential target for interventions aimed at addressing the widespread problem of bedtime procrastination. 'Given the ubiquity of this behaviour, and its impact on sleep health, we hope to extend this research to determine whether reducing negative emotions prior to bedtime can be an effective treatment for bedtime procrastination,' the researcher said.
The Star
20-06-2025
- Health
- The Star
Dr Wan Azizah calls for stronger regional collaboration to tackle healthcare challenges
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister's wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail on Friday (June 20) called for stronger regional collaboration in the medical sector to address shared healthcare challenges, particularly the growing burden of musculoskeletal and spinal disorders across the Asia-Pacific. She said such cooperation is essential in overcoming a wide range of regional health issues, from ageing population and increasing demand for care to emerging diseases and rapid technological shifts. "Our region is home to over half of the world's population. The scale of musculoskeletal and spinal disorders is vast and growing. "From congenital deformities in children to degenerative conditions in the elderly, the need for advanced, affordable and accessible care has never been greater," she said. Officiating the 14th Combined Meeting of the Asia Pacific Spine Society (APSS), Asia Pacific Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (APPOS), and Malaysian Spine Society (MSS) (APSS-APPOS-MSS) 2025 Congress here today, Dr Wan Azizah said platform like this are vital to help drive solutions, as they promote research, foster dialogue and strenghthen regional networks that transcend borders and disciplines. As the world enters the era of digital health, artificial intelligence and personalised medicine, she noted, gatherings that pool regional expertise have become even more critical. "We must ensure that while we embrace innovation, we do not lose the human touch. Our patients are not just case numbers or MRI scans, (but) they are people with stories, families, hopes and fears. And the best medicine is one that combines cutting-edge science with deep empathy," she said. Dr Wan Azizah, who studied medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, also underscored that Malaysia's role as host reflects its commitment to regional healthcare advancement and its long-standing belief in knowledge sharing and cross-border cooperation. "Our healthcare professionals have consistently demonstrated their ability to engage at the regional and global level, as researchers, practitioners and thought leaders," she said. The APSS-APPOS-MSS 2025 Congress, held from today until Sunday, convenes 1,232 delegates, including 1,014 spine specialists and 218 paediatric orthopaedic experts from across the Asia Pacific. With participation from 62 healthcare companies, the three-day congress serves as a strategic platform to promote innovation, education and research under the theme "Building the Foundation to Embrace Emerging Technologies." - Bernama
New Straits Times
20-06-2025
- Health
- New Straits Times
Dr Wan Azizah: Stronger regional unity needed to tackle Asia-Pacific health woes
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister's wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail today called for stronger regional collaboration in the medical sector to address shared healthcare challenges, particularly the growing burden of musculoskeletal and spinal disorders across the Asia-Pacific. She said such cooperation was essential in overcoming a wide range of regional health issues, from ageing population and increasing demand for care to emerging diseases and rapid technological shifts. "Our region is home to over half of the world's population. The scale of musculoskeletal and spinal disorders is vast and growing. From congenital deformities in children to degenerative conditions in the elderly, the need for advanced, affordable and accessible care has never been greater," she said. Officiating the 14th Combined Meeting of the Asia Pacific Spine Society (APSS), Asia Pacific Paediatric Orthopaedic Society (APPOS), and Malaysian Spine Society (MSS) (APSS-APPOS-MSS) 2025 Congress here today, Dr Wan Azizah said platform like this were vital to help drive solutions, as they promote research, foster dialogue and strengthen regional networks that transcend borders and disciplines. As the world enters the era of digital health, artificial intelligence and personalised medicine, she said that gatherings that pooled regional expertise had become even more critical. "We must ensure that while we embrace innovation, we do not lose the human touch. Our patients are not just case numbers or MRI scans, (but) they are people with stories, families, hopes and fears. And the best medicine is one that combines cutting-edge science with deep empathy," she said. Dr Wan Azizah, who studied medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, also underscored that Malaysia's role as host reflected its commitment to regional healthcare advancement and its long-standing belief in knowledge sharing and cross-border cooperation. "Our healthcare professionals have consistently demonstrated their ability to engage at the regional and global level, as researchers, practitioners and thought leaders," she said. The APSS-APPOS-MSS 2025 Congress, held from today until Sunday, convenes 1,232 delegates, including 1,014 spine specialists and 218 paediatric orthopaedic experts from across the Asia Pacific. With participation from 62 healthcare companies, the three-day congress serves as a strategic platform to promote innovation, education and research under the theme "Building the Foundation to Embrace Emerging Technologies."
