Sex Differences in Insomnia and Circadian Rhythm Disorders: A Systematic Review.
Level 3 - non-randomized controlled study
Systematic review of predominantly observational studies examining sex differences in sleep disorders.
PubMed 38541200 · doi:10.3390/medicina60030474
What was done
Authors conducted a systematic review across PubMed, MEDLINE, Epistemonikos, and Cochrane databases through September 5, 2023, limited to studies published within the previous five years. From 2,833 screened records, 11 studies assessing sex differences in insomnia and circadian rhythm disorders were included.
What was found
The abstract reports no numerical data, odds ratios, or effect sizes. Narratively, the included literature reported a higher prevalence of insomnia among women, though women demonstrated more regular sleep and more stable, less fragmented circadian rhythms than men. Progression of peak activity time with age was more pronounced in men, and long-term insomnia appeared to shorten lifespan more in men than in women. Results on the impact of lockdown stress were discordant between sexes.
Why it matters
The findings highlight that biological sex modulates the prevalence, circadian manifestation, and potential mortality risks associated with sleep disruption.
Limits
No quantitative values, sample sizes, or pooled effect estimates are reported in the abstract. The search was restricted to a 5-year publication window, yielding only 11 studies out of 2,833 screened records, and specific confounding adjustments or assessment methodologies are not described.