Insomnia Genetically Tied to Increased Risk of Aneurysm

A new study of 70,000 adults revealed that those who are genetically predisposed to insomnia have an increased risk of brain bleeds, more commonly known as aneurysms. Those who have genetic insomnia are 24% more likely to experience aneurysms, which are usually fatal within 24 hours. 

This study centered around lifestyle choices, but also focused on the IL6R gene, which is responsible for the interleukin‐6 receptor (IL6R). Disruptions or mutations in this gene are associated with chronic insomnia. This gene also enables exposure to other genetic diseases such as multiple myeloma, autoimmune diseases, and prostate cancer.

In general, any sleeping disorder leads to higher blood pressure, so doing research to try to solve the root cause of these sleeping disorders will greatly help lower the rate of aneurysms. However, it is unclear that this specific gene is the only genetic factor responsible for an increased risk of aneurysms.

Can Sleepless Nights Increase Your Risk of Aneurysms?

In a study of 70,000 adults, researchers discovered people who are predisposed to insomnia have a higher risk of aneurysms. An aneurysm is a spot in an artery wall that weakens which allows it to bulge out and sometimes burst. The study included over 10,000 European adults who had a brain aneurysm or suffered from a ruptured aneurysm. These people were compared to over 59,000 people who did not have any known brain aneurysms. The findings reinforce that high blood pressure, smoking, and insomnia are high risk factors for aneurysms compared to those without these genetic predispositions. A 24% increase in risk was found relating to insomnia. There was little evidence to support that predispositions to obesity and high blood fats increase this risk. The American Heart Association says there is a link between high blood pressure and poor sleep. Treating people with sleep disorders can lower blood pressure therefore lowering the risk of these aneurysms. A healthy diet and regular exercise can also lower blood pressure. Those who carry genetic variants that raise the odds of insomnia, high blood pressure, or smoking have a higher chance of an aneurysm occurring. 

Brain aneurysms can go unnoticed until it is too late, and they ruptured. Lowering the risk of these occurring is the first step in preventing them. Approximately 2.5% of intracranial aneurysms will rupture which is a large percentage considering they are highly fatal. The studies were only conducted on people of European descent, so these findings may be a false representation of the entire world population. The findings in this study can be useful in developing possible preventions and therapies.