The Effect of Sleep Duration and Quality on Glycemic Control in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Longitudinal Study

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a chronic condition necessitating comprehensive management to prevent complications. Emerging evidence underscores the critical role of sleep duration and quality in influencing glycemic control. This review synthesized longitudinal studies to evaluate the interplay between sleep and glycemic outcomes in adults with T2D. Optimal sleep duration (7–9 hours per night) is linked to improved metabolic health, while both short (≤6 hours) and long (≥10 hours) sleep durations, alongside poor sleep quality, are associated with adverse glycemic outcomes, including elevated HbA1c levels and increased glucose variability. The review identified key mechanisms such as insulin resistance, inflammation, autonomic dysregulation, and behavioral factors underlying these associations. A narrative review methodology was utilized to examine current evidence and highlight trends in sleep and glycemic control. Longitudinal studies revealed a bidirectional relationship where poor sleep exacerbates hyperglycemia, while hyperglycemia disrupts sleep patterns, suggesting that addressing sleep disturbances may reciprocally benefit glycemic outcomes. Despite challenges such as measurement variability and intervention feasibility, integrating sleep-focused interventions into diabetes care holds promise. Future research should explore mechanistic pathways, assess intervention outcomes, and leverage technology for personalized care. By recognizing sleep as a modifiable factor, this review advocated for a holistic approach to enhance glycemic control and overall well-being in T2D management. Keywords: Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), Sleep Duration, Sleep Quality, Glycemic Control, Longitudinal Studies.