Prevalence and Characteristics of Insomnia Problems Among Adults in Central Istria

Aim: We sought to examine the frequency and characteristics of insomnia among adults in central Istria, as well as to analyse sociodemographic characteristics and explore whether there is an association between symptoms of insomnia and sociodemographic parameters. Methods: This research included 685 participants that visited family medicine offices (FMOs) in Central Istria from September till December 2016. Mean age of the sample was 52.73 ± 17.93 years. Participants were randomly selected and interviewed and all gave their informed consent. Participants with sleep disturbances and insomnia lasting one year prior to study enrolment were assessed using the questionnaire designed for the study; along with gathering of sociodemographic data. Results: More than half of the participants had insomnia, 30% of them each night or several times a week, mostly older participants and women. Regardless of the frequency of insomnia symptoms, all participants reported great impairment in all areas of daytime functioning. The most frequent incidence of insomnia was associated with more frequent sleep apnoea and less frequent bruxism. Frequent night awakenings and restless legs syndrome were not related to a greater incidence of insomnia. Conclusion: Insomnia is a common problem among patients treated in primary care. Family physicians are therefore in an ideal position to identify, evaluate and treat insomnia. The high prevalence of insomnia highlights the need for a more adequate recognition and treatment of this psychiatric illness.