A study based on the Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease (KIHD) Study in Finland explored the relationship between sauna bathing and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and overall mortality. The study followed 1,688 participants aged 53 to 74 for approximately 15 years, examining how frequently they used saunas, as well as the duration and temperature of their sauna sessions. The participants were divided into three groups based on their sauna usage: once per week, two to three times per week, and four to seven times per week. The study found that those who used saunas more frequently—especially four to seven times per week—had a significantly lower risk of fatal CVD events, such as heart attacks and strokes, as well as reduced all-cause mortality. The group that bathed in saunas once a week had about four times as many CVD-related deaths as the frequent users.
The study’s findings suggest that sauna bathing could offer substantial health benefits, particularly for heart health. Frequent sauna use was linked to lower blood pressure, improved cardiovascular function, and overall better survival rates. These benefits are likely due to the therapeutic effects of heat exposure, which is known to improve circulation and promote the relaxation of blood vessels, potentially reducing the strain on the heart. However, the study’s authors note that while the results are promising, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these benefits, as heat therapy may have broader effects on multiple bodily systems. The study also highlights cultural differences, as sauna bathing is a common practice in Finland, which may make it harder for Americans to replicate these results due to lower sauna usage in the U.S.
