Overweight and Obesity are Potential Risk Factors for Disrupted Nocturnal Sleep in Iranian Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objectives: Obesity is a risk factor for several chronic conditions, including sleep disorders. We aimed to analyze the relationship between BMI, body fat percentage (FAT%), hip and waist circumference, and weight on the duration of nocturnal sleep. Methods: This study was part of the MASHAD cohort study. In all participants BMI and FAT% were measured. BMI was used to categorize individuals as obese, overweight, and normal subjects. FAT% was used to categorize individuals into tertile: tertile 1 (low) < 27.5, tertile 2 (medium) 27.5-41, and tertile 3 (high) > 41. The level of nightly sleep duration was categorized into three groups: <6, 6-8 (reference group), and >8 h. Results: There was a significant inverse association between body weight and duration of sleep (p < 0.05). Obese and overweight participants had 1.152 OR (CI:1.083-1.225) and 1.126 OR (CI:1.063-1.194) for a short duration of nocturnal sleep, respectively, relative to those with a normal BMI. Conclusion: BMI was an independent determinant of nocturnal sleep duration; obesity and overweight may have negative consequences on sleep duration. Weight control should be considered as a factor in adjusting sleep quality.

Keywords: MASHAD study; nightly sleep; nightly sleep deprivation; nocturnal sleep; obesity.