麥基爾大學台灣研究生同學會

In 2009, heart disease and stroke were two of the three leading causes of death in Canada. Therefore, finding ways in which we can effectively prevent cardiovascular emergencies remains extremely important. Previous research has shown that the frequency and severity of cardiovascular emergencies, including heart attacks, are highest in the morning hours and during the last phase of sleep. This result is not surprising as one of the most important factors in the regulation of human physiology, including the cardiovascular system, is the circadian pacemaker. To understand why the morning hours and the last phase of sleep are the most dangerous periods for having cardiovascular emergencies, we will be examining the relationships between the function of the heart, the circadian clock, posture, and sleep. Sixteen healthy men and women, aged 18 to 30, will be enrolled from the community for a six day study. During the experimental period, participants will be taking multiple naps at different times of day, while having their heart activity and blood pressure monitored continuously. Participants will also perform postural changes upon awakening from the multiple naps to simulate the action of getting out of bed after normal sleep episodes. This procedure will allow us to examine how heart activity changes in relationship to sleep and posture at different times of day. Results from the current study will help us to better understand the role of disrupted sleep on the increased risk of developing high blood pressure and cardiac problems observed in shift workers, as well as the overall increased risk of cardiovascular events in the morning for the general population.

Wei-Hsien Yeh, M.Sc. Graduate Student
Centre for Study and Treatment of Circadian Rhythms
Douglas Mental Health University Institute
Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University
6875 LaSalle Boulevard
Montreal (Quebec) H4H 1R3 CANADA
Phone: (514) 761-6131 ext. 3383