Health status, sleeping habits and dyssomnia of coastal fishermen

The aim of this survey was to assess the health status, sleep habits and dyssomnia of coastal fishermen.

This cross-sectional survey involved a representative sample of 948 coastal fishermen. All participants were men and had a regular activity for at least 2 years. We used an individual questionnaire inspired by those of Morphée network, the National Institute for Research and Security of France, and of the Karasek's Job Content Questionnaire.

The prevalence of sociodemographic and individual parameters was similar in rotating shiftwork (RW) and in nocturnal work (NW). The average age of the total population was 38.8 ± 8.1 years. The prevalence of sleep habits and alertness disorders was similar in RW and in NW. The average daily sleep time of the total population was 5.5 ± 0.9 hours during the week, and 8.7 ± 0.8 hours during the holidays, Fridays and recovery days. Upon waking, 49.7% of the subjects felt tired and sleepy, 43.2% fit and 7.1% had a headache. 47.2% reported being chronic insomniac. The index of severity of insomnia was moderate to severe in 29.6%. The prevalence of excessive daytime sleepiness (Epworth > 10) was 16.2%. Fatigue, iso-strain and socio-economic concerns were associated with a higher risk of chronic insomnia.

Coastal fishermen were at a high risk of chronic dyssomnia and alertness disorders. Education initiatives should be conducted to raise fishermen's awareness on their health and safety consequences.