Top 5 Most-Read Sleep Content of 2023

The top 5 most-read articles on sleep published on AJMC.com this year include content focusing on narcolepsy management, approval of medication to treat insomnia, and the association of metabolic syndrome with sleep duration.

Here are the top 5 sleep pieces in 2023.

5. Poor Sleep, Extreme Sleep Duration Linked With Past COVID-19 Infection

In a cross-sectional study conducted among more than 19,000 US adults during the first 4 waves of the 2022 COVID-19 pandemic, correlations between lack of sleep and risk of COVID-19 were found. While there was no relationship between COVID-19 hospitalization and sleep duration, there were correlations among lack of sleep leading to higher stress, resulting in a weaker immune system. Investigators concluded that poor sleep quality and shorter or longer sleep durations were associated with having had COVID-19.

Read the full article here.

4. High Prevalence of Anxiety, Depression in Patients with Narcolepsy Suggests Biological Relationship

Researchers set out to explore the high prevalence of narcolepsy in patients with anxiety and depression, hypothesizing a biological relationship between the disorders. Psychiatric illnesses are often associated with sleep disorders because the serotonergic, noradrenergic, and dopaminergic pathways are present in affective disorders as well as narcolepsy. Similar symptoms are reflected in patients with anxiety and depression as those seen in excessive sleepiness and cataplexy episodes. The study authors noted that other factors contributing to psychological symptoms may not have a direct relationship to narcolepsy.

Read the full article here.

3. Cost-Effectiveness of a 3-Year Tele-Messaging Intervention for Positive Airway Pressure Use

A study published in the May issue of The American Journal of Managed Care calculated the cost effectiveness of a 3-year tele-messaging intervention for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) using positive airway pressure (PAP) machines. Data from the tele-OSA trial showed that long-term tele-messaging was more effective than no messaging and came at similar costs. Overall, long-term tele-messaging resulted in greater success and reflected lower health care costs than short-term messaging. Based on the study results, interventions driving greater PAP use may yield clinical and economic benefits.

Read the full article here.

2. Telemonitoring Might Improve CPAP Adherence for Patients With OSA

A systematic literature review and meta-analysis analyzed the effects of behavioral and psychosocial interventions for continuous PAP therapy adherence. Compared with standard care in OSA, telemonitoring improved the average nightly hours of PAP therapy, while motivational enhancement therapy (MET) had the greatest impact on long-term adherence. Further research is necessary in determining the improvement in quality of life associated with behavioral and supportive interventions. According to the authors, the results suggest that researchers and clinicians providing feedback can help patients manage adverse effects and other potentially harmful issues.

Read the full article here.

1. As More Survive Cancer, Issues with Sleep, Fatigue, Cognitive Function on the Rise

At the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) 2023 Annual Conference, a panel titled “Sleep Disorders, Fatigue, and Cognitive Function in Cancer Survivors” discussed guidelines on handling sleep-related symptoms as the rate of survivorship grows. The prevalence of sleep disorders in patients with cancer is uncertain, but panelists offered suggestions on the topic. One said to screen for sleep disorders, embed care within the practice site, and train providers to address sleep issues more seriously. Although there is no consensus definition of cancer-related fatigue, it is the most common symptom reported by patients with cancer.

Read the full article here.