A Mixed Method Examination of Sleep Patterns and Barriers to Sleep in Hispanic Women

Abstract

Research on Hispanic sleep (1) remains far behind research on non-Hispanic White sleep, and (2) seldom focuses solely on Hispanic women. A convergent parallel mixed-methods study design was used to examine (1) sleep quantity, quality, and habits; (2) the association of sleep and health; and (3) perceived barriers to healthy sleep in middle-aged Hispanic women living in [a large Midwest city]. A total of 78 Hispanic women were surveyed, and 27 of these Hispanic women participated in focus groups. Participants had: poor sleep quantity, quality, and sleep hygiene. In focus groups, participants identified three barriers to healthy sleep: poor sleep hygiene, responsibilities and related stress, and additional mental health concerns. While poor sleep quantity and quality have serious health consequences for Hispanic women, sleep disorders in Hispanic women have been understudied. This study underscores barriers to healthy sleep and the associations between sleep and health in Hispanic women.

Keywords: Hispanic women health; Hispanic women sleep; Latina health; Latina sleep; Sleep disparities; Sleep promotion.