Abstract
Background
Trouble sleeping is prevalent in modern society and is known to be associated with various health problems. However, studies on the relationship between trouble sleeping and gallstones are relatively few. This study aims to explore the potential association between trouble sleeping and gallstones among adult Americans.
Methods
Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2020 were analyzed, including 7,438 adult participants. The relationship between trouble sleeping and gallstones was assessed using multivariable logistic regression models, with sensitivity analyses performed using multiple imputation, weighted analysis, and propensity score matching.
Results
Among the 7,438 participants, 780 (10.5%) reported having gallstones. The analysis showed a significantly increased risk of gallstones among participants with trouble sleeping (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.26–1.76, P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses indicated consistent associations across different subgroups based on sex, age, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, with interaction observed in age subgroups.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that trouble sleeping may be an independent risk factor for gallstones. This highlights the potential importance of improving sleep quality in the prevention of gallstones.