A Deep Dive into Sleep and Heart Disease

Meet Saurabh Thosar, Ph.D., a pioneering sleep scientist at Oregon Health & Science University who is exploring the intricate links between sleep patterns and cardiovascular health—the leading cause of death in the U.S. and worldwide.

Thosar's unique background in occupational therapy and cardiac rehabilitation fuels his quest for answers about how our internal body clocks, or circadian rhythms, influence heart health. "Most heart attacks occur early in the morning, shortly after waking," he says. "Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for combating cardiovascular disease."

Groundbreaking Research at OHSU

Thosar is currently leading an innovative research initiative where participants with hypertension spend five days in a specialized sleep lab. Here, researchers continuously monitor vital health metrics, including blood pressure and heart rate, in various situations—both at rest and after stress tests like exercise.

By removing clocks from the environment, Thosar and his team aim to uncover participants' true circadian rhythms and how these cycles correlate with cardiovascular health indicators.

The Future of Heart Health

Thosar is optimistic that this research will yield evidence-based strategies for better health outcomes. For instance, he suggests that blood pressure medications could be time-optimized—potentially reducing the frequency of dosages. "It’s possible that adjusting timing could maximize the effectiveness of existing medications," he explains.

From Clinical Practice to Cutting-Edge Research

Originally from India, Thosar’s journey into heart health began as an occupational therapist in cardiac units. His passion for clinical exercise led him to earn advanced degrees in movement sciences and human performance in the U.S.

In 2014, he joined the lab of Steven Shea, Ph.D., an authority on sleep science at OHSU, and discovered a newfound focus on the science of sleep. "I was well-versed in exercise but knew little about sleep. Dr. Shea has been an exceptional mentor in this new frontier," he shares.

A Collaborative Environment for Breakthroughs

OHSU provides a rich collaborative atmosphere where Thosar and a skilled team of researchers thrive. They utilize state-of-the-art facilities to deepen our understanding of sleep's impact on health.

"I feel incredibly fortunate to conduct research here. The support from both the institution and fellow researchers has been invaluable in gathering data around the clock," Thosar praises.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Today, Thosar leads his own lab, dedicated to mentoring upcoming researchers who will carry the torch in this vital area of study. His journey showcases the significant interplay between sleep, circadian rhythms, and heart health—a relationship that could hold the key to revolutionizing cardiovascular care.