Analysis of the Determinants of Sleep Quality in a Spanish Population. a Study Protocol for a Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Sleep disorders are a growing concern for public health, being related, among others, to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases or poorer cognitive functioning. In addition, these might have a possible impact on aspects related to personal motivation and quality of life. However, few studies have analyzed the possible determinants of sleep quality in the adult population as a whole, establishing patterns based on these.

Objective: To evaluate the determinants of sleep quality in a representative sample of the general adult population aged 25 to 65 years old and to establish patterns of sleep quality based on lifestyles, psychological factors, morbidities and biological markers.

Methodology:

Design: This is a descriptive observational, cross-sectional study that will include a representative sample of 500 people aged 25 to 65 years old from the city of Salamanca (Spain) selected by random sampling stratified by age and sex.

Study variables: A visit lasting approximately 90 minutes will be carried out. The determinants of sleep quality will be assessed using both objective and self-reported methods. Variables related to life styles will be assessed: physical activity, diet and toxic habits including tobacco smoking or alcohol use. Morbidity data will also be collected, and psychological factors such as anxiety will also be assessed. Serum melatonin levels will be determined as a biological marker related to sleep quality.