Sleep disorders among Tunisian night-shift workers: a cross-sectional study

Night shift work is common today and disrupts circadian rhythms, leading to health concerns. This study examines the impact of night shifts on sleep quality among Tunisian workers, determines the prevalence of sleep disorders, and identifies factors associated with poor sleep quality.

This cross-sectional study employed an online questionnaire to assess sleep disorders among night workers aged 18 and older. Key measures included sleep quality, daytime alertness, mood, and subjective well-being, assessed with validated Arabic versions of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and WHO-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5).

A study of 503 Tunisian night shift workers aged 25 to 64 revealed significant sleep disturbances. Poor sleep quality (PSQI score > 5) was found in 59.4%, while 13.7% reported insomnia (ISI score > 15). Severe insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, severe depression, and poor well-being were present in 2%, 32.6%, 4%, and 58.3%, respectively. Factors linked to poor sleep quality included BMI, active smoking, fatty meals, hypnotic use, nasal obstruction, sinusitis, gastrointestinal disorders, and well-being scores.

The findings of this study highlight the significant impact of night shift work on sleep quality and overall well-being among Tunisian workers. To mitigate these effects, practical interventions are essential, including promoting shift work schedules, improving workplace wellness programs, encouraging healthier lifestyle choices, and providing access to mental health support. Future research should investigate the relationship between shift work, sleep, and mental health while finding ways to mitigate these effects.