How improving sleep can lower heart attack risk

(Linda Carroll/ NBC News) — Sleep really is a lifesaver.

A pair of studies released this week at a leading cardiology conference found that while insomnia may raise the risk of having a heart attack, consistent high quality sleep habits could add years to your life.

People with insomnia are 69% more likely to have a heart attack, compared to those who do not have the sleep disorder, according to a new analysis of previous research presented Friday at the American College of Cardiology’s annual conference.

The study conducted by an international team of researchers examined the connection between insomnia and heart attacks through data on more than 1 million adults, average age 52, from six countries. People were categorized as having insomnia if they had at least one of three symptoms: (…)