Evaluation of the influence of sleep on obesity indices among young adults

Abstract

Background: Sleep is an indispensable physiological process. The recommended average sleep duration for young adults is about 7–9 h a day. Quality and duration of sleep have a considerable influence on several anthropometric measurements, in addition to the typical determinants, such as level of physical activity, dietary choices, and genetic predisposition. These days, obesity is a ubiquitous public health crisis and there has been a parallel rise in sleep deprivation. Several reviews have suggested an increased likelihood of obesity among short-sleepers. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to assess the quality and duration of sleep, physical activity, and obesity indices in young adults and evaluate the impact of sleep on the obesity indices. Materials and Methods: Three hundred young adults of both sexes aged between 18 and 25 years were selected and their anthropometric measurements such as height, weight, waist, and hip circumference were recorded. Obesity indices – waist/hip ratio (WHR), waist to height ratio, body mass index (BMI), abdominal volume index (AVI), and conicity index were calculated. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and General Practice Physical Activity Questionnaire were used to assess the quality and duration of sleep as well as physical activity, respectively. Based on the PSQI index, they were categorized into – Group 1 with adequate sleep and Group 2 without adequate sleep. Independent Student’s t-test was employed; P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Analysis of anthropometric measurements showed a significant increase in weight (63.60 ± 16.52 kg vs. 60.26 ± 13.73 kg), waist circumference (79.52 ± 12.83 cm vs. 78.60 ± 10.27 cm), and AVI (13.07 ± 4.20 vs. 12.68 ± 3.30) in Group 2. BMI and WHR were increased in Group 2 but were not statistically significant. Physical activity was found to be more in Group 2 subjects. Conclusion: Quality of sleep has a role in obesity irrespective of physical activity.