Research
Chronicity of sleep problems in children with chronic illness: a longitudinal population-based study
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* Corresponding author: Børge Sivertsen borge.sivertsen@psykp.uib.no
1 Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
2 Department of Biological and Medical Psychology, University of Bergen, Norway
3 Department of Pediatrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
4 Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Unifob Health, Bergen, Norway
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health 2009, 3:22 doi:10.1186/1753-2000-3-22
Published: 27 August 2009Abstract
Background
The aim of this study was to examine the chronicity of sleep problems in children with chronic illness, and potential predictors of sleep problems.
Methods
Using data from a longitudinal total population study in Norway, The Bergen Child Study, data on sleep problems, chronic illness and potential confounders were assessed at ages 7-9 and 11-13.
Results
295 of 4025 (7.3%) children had a chronic illness, and the prevalence of chronic sleep problems was significantly higher in this group compared to children without chronic illness (6.8% versus 3.6%). Sleep problems at the first wave increased the risk of sleep problems at the second wave, also when adjusting for potential confounders (odds-ratio = 5.41). Hyperactivity and emotional problems were also independent risk factors for later sleep problems.
Conclusion
These findings call for increased awareness and development of treatment strategies of sleep problems in children with chronic illness.