In 2,315 Finnish men followed for ~20 years, going to the sauna 4-7 times/week was associated with 66% less dementia and Alzheimer's compared with once a week. It is an observational association (not proof of cause), but consistent with the vascular benefit of heat.
Prospective cohort (1,688 people, half women): frequent sauna use was associated with lower cardiovascular mortality in both sexes, and adding the sauna habit improved risk prediction. Observational association, consistent with the vascular benefit of heat.
Prospective cohort (1,935 men, ~25 years): frequent sauna use was associated with lower risk of respiratory diseases (COPD, asthma, pneumonia). Observational association, consistent with other benefits of the sauna.
Dementia and Alzheimer's disease (prevention) — protective association (Low-moderate, prospective cohort). In 2,315 Finnish men followed for ~20 years, going to the sauna 4-7 times/week was associated with 66% less dementia and Alzheimer's disease compared with once a week. It is an observational association (it does not prove cause), but consistent with the vascular benefit of heat. 27932366
Cardiovascular mortality (men and women) — association (Low-moderate, study). Prospective cohort (1,688 people, half of them women): frequent sauna use was associated with lower cardiovascular mortality in both sexes, and adding the sauna habit improved risk prediction. Observational association, consistent with the vascular benefit of heat. 30486813
Respiratory diseases (COPD, asthma, pneumonia) — association (Low-moderate, study). Prospective cohort (1,935 men, ~25 years): frequent sauna use was associated with a lower risk of respiratory diseases (COPD, asthma, pneumonia). Observational association, consistent with other benefits of the sauna. 28905164
Information, not medical advice. Prescription drugs require a doctor.
Information, not medical advice. Scientific evidence reflects the quality of the studies.