Insomnia Prevalence and Risk Factors Among Hispanic University Staff: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Insomnia, characterized by difficulties in initiating or maintaining sleep, significantly impacts general health and well-being. This study aims to determine the prevalence and risk factors of insomnia among Hispanic university staff at the Catholic University of Santiago de Guayaquil in Ecuador Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2023 to February 2024, involving 385 university employees. Participants completed an anonymous online survey collecting data on demographics, lifestyle habits, work-related factors, and sleep behaviors. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) assessed sleep quality and insomnia severity. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman correlations. Results: Of the 385 participants, 65.2% experienced insomnia. The mean PSQI score was 8.8±5, with 15.1% having severe sleep problems. The mean ISI score was 11.5±7, with 2.9% experiencing severe insomnia. Significant correlations were found between higher PSQI scores and job area, workload, ethnicity, use of insomnia medication, cigarette use, and number of lights in the sleeping environment. ISI scores correlated with workload, ethnicity, and alcohol consumption before sleep. Elevated workplace stress levels strongly correlated with increased insomnia severity. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of Hispanic university staff reported clinically significant insomnia. Key risk factors included job role, workload, lifestyle habits, and environmental factors. Addressing these risk factors through targeted interventions is essential to improve sleep health and overall well-being among university staff.