Self-reported sleep disturbances among people living with HIV in China: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

People living with HIV (PLWH) commonly face a range of health issues, among which sleep disturbances are common and are related to adverse health outcomes. This review aims to assess the pooled prevalence of sleep disturbances among PLWH in China through a comprehensive and quantitative meta-analysis.

We conducted comprehensive searches of Chinese databases and international databases from their inception to December 23, 2023. The random effects model was used to calculate the pooled prevalence estimates with a 95% confidence interval.

This meta-analysis included 20 studies involving 12,256 Chinese PLWH, 5,542 PLWH of whom experienced sleep disturbances. The pooled prevalence was 46% (95% CI: 42-51%). Subgroup analysis revealed that the prevalence of sleep disturbances was influenced by the mental status of depression (Q = 4.21, p < .001) and anxiety (Q = 4.76, p < .001), receiving support from family and friends (Q = 6.63, p < .001), treatment with Efavirenz (Q = 37.53, p = .007), studies using different instruments (Q = 42.69, p < .001) and those using different cutoff values of PSQI (Q = 48.29, p < .001). Meta-regression analysis revealed that the covariates, including mean age, female proportion, publication year, and quality score, were not significant moderators of heterogeneity (p > .05).

Chinese PLWH experience a significant burden of sleep disturbances. Early screening and comprehensive interventions targeting sleep disturbances in this population should be prioritized to improve their overall well-being and quality of life.