Relationship between sleep quality and self-care behaviors in people with type 2 diabetes: descriptive-analytical study

Abstract

Introduction: Sleep deprivation is one of the common features of type 2 diabetes and a risk factor for impaired self-care behavior in diabetics. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sleep quality and self-care behavior in people with type 2 diabetes in the city of Delijan in 2022. Methods: This was a descriptive-analytical study conducted on 207 people with type 2 diabetes. The data were conveniently collected from health centers and homes in Delijan. Data collection tools included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities Measure (SDSCA), clinical information about the disease (FBS, HbA1C levels, and duration of diabetes), and a checklist of demographic information. SPSS version 23 was used for data analysis. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, ANOVA, and linear regression. The P value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean age (SD) of the participants was 58.67 (10.4) years. Most participants were female (66.7). Among the demographic variables, family history of diabetes, chronic disease, and duration of disease with self-care behavior, gender and age showed a significant association with sleep quality. They also showed a significant correlation with sleep quality for the self-care components of smoking, foot care, and physical activity. Conclusion: Based on the results, healthcare providers can be recommended to encourage type 2 diabetes for more physical activity, do not smoke, and careful foot care to improve sleep quality. © 2025 The Author(s).