Interaction effects between sleep-related disorders and depression on hypertension among adults: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Hypertension, sleep disorders, and depression represent notable public health issues, and their interconnected nature has long been acknowledged. The objective of this study is to explore the interplay between sleep disorders and depression in the context of hypertension. Methods This cross-sectional study involved 42,143 participants aged 18 and above from the NHANES database across seven survey cycles between 2005 and 2018. After excluding those with missing data on depression, sleep disorders, and hypertension, as well as incomplete main variables, 33,383 participants remained. We used weighted logistic regression to examine the relationship between sleep disorders, depression, and hypertension. Additionally, we assessed the interaction between sleep disorders and depression on hypertension using both multiplicative and additive approaches to quantify their combined effect. Results Compared to individuals without sleep disorders, those with sleep disorders have an increased risk of hypertension (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.37–1.67). Furthermore, individuals with depression experience a significantly higher risk of hypertension compared to those with sleep disorders alone (OR = 2.34, 95% CI: 1.95–2.80). Our study reveals a positive interaction between sleep disorders and depression in relation to hypertension risk (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.02–1.13). In addition, we observed the quantitative additive interaction indicators (RERI = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.56 ~ 0.92; API = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.11 ~ 0.46; SI = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.08–3.46) influencing hypertension risk. Furthermore, our research also identified that individuals with less than 7 h of sleep, a sleep latency period between 5 and 30 min, or a latency period exceeding 30 min experience a significantly increased risk of hypertension. Conclusions Our research uncovered separate links between sleep disorders, depression, and hypertension prevalence. Moreover, we identified an interaction between depression and sleep disorders in hypertension prevalence. Enhancing mental well-being and tackling sleep disorders could help prevent and manage hypertension. Yet, more investigation is required to establish causation and clarify mechanisms.