The Relationship Between Sleep Quality and HbA1c of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Aim: Sleep disorders are common in patients with type-2 diabetes. This study aims to examine the relationship between sleep quality and sleep quality subdimensions and HbA1c levels of patients with type 2 diabetes. Method: This correlative and cross-sectional design study was conducted in Istanbul/ Turkey between November 10, 2020, and December 10, 2020. The data collection form created by the researchers and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used to collect data. Result: Of the 186 patients with type 2 diabetes in the study 56.4% smokers. It was determined that the mean total PSQI score of the patients was 14.89±3.69 and 85.4% had low sleep quality (PSQI>5). A positive significant relationship was found between PSQI total score and HbA1c (r:0.245, p:0.042). In addition, a positive relationship was found between HbA1c and the scores of habitual sleep efficiency (r:0.145, p:0.036) and sleep disorder (r:0.223, p:0.032) sub-scale. The total PSQI scores of women were significantly higher (p: 0.042) and sleep duration was shorter (p<0.001) compared to men. It was determined that the sleep quality of non-smokers was better than that of smokers (p:0.017). Conclusion: A positive relationship was found between impaired sleep quality and HbA1c in patients with type 2 diabetes. It was found out that this relationship was due to habitual sleep efficiency and sleep disorder and that sleep quality was worse in women and smokers. Often overlooked in the follow-up of patients with diabetes, assessment of sleep quality should be part of diabetes care.