Chronic Severe Sleep Problems among Non-Nordic Immigrants. Data from a Population Postal Survey in Mid-Sweden

Abstract

Sweden has a large population of both recent and established immigrants with high prevalence of risk factors for ill health. Here, we aimed to explore the prevalence of chronic severe sleep problems (CSSP) among non-Nordic-born persons, and to evaluate the risk for CSSP when fully adjusted for covariates. Our additional hypothesis was that lengthier time since immigration would reduce the risk for CSSP. We used data from a large-population postal survey covering life and health issues among inhabitants in mid-Sweden. Relationship between different countries of birth and CSSP was assessed in logistic analyses for more severe and longstanding pain, sex, employment, mental disability, gastrointestinal problems, and length of stay (short, middle time, and up to ten years of stay). Persons of non-Nordic birth reported significantly more often CSSP, regardless of short or long-term stay. Our findings indicate that non-Nordic birth, regardless of residence time and covariates, was an independent and significant predictor for CSSP. The findings may contribute to increasing awareness in healthcare personnel to recognize chronic sleep problems among immigrant patients. Thus, our study might contribute to developing strategies to enhance health for minorities.