Association between sleep quality and quantity and body mass index in college adolescents: A cross-sectional study

Introduction: Changes in sleep patterns increase susceptibility to weight gain.Objective: To estimate the association between the quality and quantity of sleep hours per night and Body Mass Index (BMI) in Mexican college adolescents. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study conducted among incoming nursing students in a public university in Mexico. Convenience sampling was used, involving n=134 students (18-19 years old), volunteers, and enrolled in the nursing program. Sleep quality and quantity were measured through the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). BMI was calculated using the standard formula. The protocol was approved by the School of Nursing Ethics Committee, and the participants signed informed consent. Results: Mean age 18.21 years (SD= .42 years), 82.84% female, 45.52% overweight or obese (95% CI= 35.46-52.86%). 44.02% of participants reported sleeping = 6 hours per night, and 50.00% reported poor sleep quality in the past four weeks. After adjustment for age, sex, and occupation, sleep quality was not associated with BMI (OR= 1.01; 95% CI= .94-1.08; z= .31; p= .75); increased BMI was associated with a greater likelihood of sleeping 6 hours or less (OR= 1.08; 95% CI= 1.01 -1.16; z= 2.25; p= .02). Discussion: Hormonal changes, behavioral factors, and the environment may explain the association. Conclusions: It is advisable to implement educational strategies to improve sleep hygiene among this population.