Sleep Quality in an Asthmatic Adult Population in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background & aims: Asthma is a chronic disorder affecting health-related quality of life. This study aimed to explore differences in sleep quality based on individual characteristics, such as smoking habits and asthma.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included Saudi citizens aged ≥18 years. A questionnaire was used to collect information regarding demographics, sleep quality, smoking history, and physical activity.

Results: We included 489 participants (male, 58%), divided into three main groups for analysis: (1) individuals with asthma (n=52), smokers (n=104), and controls (n=333). In total, 71.15% (n=37) of individuals with asthma and 64.4% (n=67) of the smokers had sleep difficulties. Furthermore, 61.5% (n=32) of individuals with asthma and 56.7% (n=59) of smokers were found to be insufficiently active. Additionally, 15.4% (n=8) of individuals with asthma and 15.4% of smokers (n=16) were moderately active. Finally, 23.1% (n=12) of individuals with asthma and 27.9% (n=29) of smokers were active. The questionnaire also revealed that 57.7% (n=282) of respondents had poor sleep quality, with a significantly higher rate among individuals with asthma (71.15%; n=37; mean ± SD: 10 ± 3.57) compared to that among non-asthmatics (50%; n=245; mean ± SD: 6.58 ± 3.61; P=0.027).

Conclusion: Asthma has a significant impact on sleep quality and physical activity levels. Poor sleep quality adversely affects the quality of life, suggesting that increased public awareness of these risk factors is crucial.