Abstract
BackgroundThe aim of this study was to examine the chronicity of sleep problems in children with chronic illness, and potential predictors of sleep problems.MethodsUsing data from a longitudinal total population study in Norway, The Bergen Child Study, data on sleep problems, chronic illness and potential confounders were assessed at ages 7-9 and 11-13.Results295 of 4025 (7.3%) children had a chronic illness, and the prevalence of chronic sleep problems was significantly higher in this group compared to children without chronic illness (6.8% versus 3.6%). Sleep problems at the first wave increased the risk of sleep problems at the second wave, also when adjusting for potential confounders (odds-ratio = 5.41). Hyperactivity and emotional problems were also independent risk factors for later sleep problems.ConclusionThese findings call for increased awareness and development of treatment strategies of sleep problems in children with chronic illness.
Highlights
The aim of this study was to examine the chronicity of sleep problems in children with chronic illness, and potential predictors of sleep problems
These findings call for increased awareness and development of treatment strategies of sleep problems in children with chronic illness
Little is known with regards to the chronicity of sleep problems in children with chronic illness, and to the best of our knowledge, no longitudinal population-based studies have investigated the stability of sleep problems over time in this group of children
Summary
The aim of this study was to examine the chronicity of sleep problems in children with chronic illness, and potential predictors of sleep problems. Children with chronic illness are at increased risk for sleep problems, and several cross-sectional studies have found an increased rate of sleep problems in children with specific chronic illnesses, including cerebral palsy [3], epilepsy [4], asthma [5], headaches [6], and migraine [7]. In one of the few population-based studies assessing sleep problems among children with chronic illness, Hysing et al [8] found that these children reported more problems falling asleep and had more night-time awakenings compared to their healthy peers. Little is known with regards to the chronicity of sleep problems in children with chronic illness, and to the best of our knowledge, no longitudinal population-based studies have investigated the stability of sleep problems over time in this group of children
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