Short sleep duration and interest in sleep improvement in a multi-ethnic cohort of diverse women participating in a community-based wellness intervention: An unmet need for improvement

Abstract

Abstract Background: Disparities in sleep duration are a modifiable contributor to increased risk for cardiometabolic disorders in communities of color. We examined the prevalence of short sleep duration and interest in improving sleep among a multi-ethnic sample of women participating in a culturally tailored wellness coaching program and discussed steps to engage communities in sleep health interventions. Methods: Data were derived from the baseline survey and wellness coaching notes. Short sleep duration was defined as self-reported sleep <7 hours. Analyses utilized multivariable models to evaluate factors contributing to short sleep and interest in sleep improvement. We present our process of discussing results with community leaders and health workers. Results: A total of 485 women of color participated in the study. Among these, 199 (41%) reported short sleep duration. Blacks/African Americans and Native Hawaiians/Pacific Islanders were significantly more likely to report short sleep than Hispanics/Latinas. Depression and self-reported stress were significantly associated with short sleep duration. Interest in sleep improvement was reported by 52 women (10.7%). African Immigrants/Refugees and African Americans were less likely to report interest in sleep improvement. Community leaders and health workers reported lack of awareness of the role of sleep in health and discussed challenges to obtaining adequate sleep in their communities. Conclusion: Despite the high prevalence of short sleep duration, interest in sleep improvement was generally low. This study highlights a discrepancy between need and interest, and our process of community engagement, which can inform intervention development for addressing sleep duration among diverse women.