Air Pollution Disrupts Sleep, Study Finds

Air pollution may be a hidden culprit behind restless nights, according to a recent study.

Data collected by the Sleep Cycle app demonstrated a direct correlation between increased particle air pollution and a rise in nighttime coughing.

Researchers analyzed sound samples from tens of thousands of users in 32 cities worldwide over approximately 500 days. The study found that for every 10 micrograms of particulate matter per cubic meter increase in air pollution, there was a 2.4% rise in nighttime coughing.

This effect persisted even when accounting for seasonal factors like flu season, surprising the lead researchers. The findings suggest that there may be no definitively safe level of exposure to air pollution. Individuals may consider protective measures like wearing masks or using air filters to mitigate their exposure.