New research presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2024 indicates that catching up on sleep during weekends can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Data from over 90,000 participants in the UK Biobank study revealed that individuals who compensated for lost sleep on weekends had a 19% lower risk of developing heart disease compared to those who did not. This effect was even more pronounced among those who were sleep-deprived during weekdays, with a 20% reduction in heart disease risk. The study's findings challenge previous recommendations that emphasized maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. The data was collected over a period of nearly 14 years, with participants monitored for heart conditions such as heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and stroke. The results highlight the potential cardiovascular benefits of weekend 'catch-up' sleep for those unable to meet sleep requirements during the week.