The impact of sleep quality on cognitive function in residents of high altitude areas: a cross-sectional study

This study aims to explore the current status of cognitive function among community residents in high-altitude areas, and analyze the influence of sleep quality on cognitive function, so as to provide a theoretical basis for developing intervention strategies to improve the cognitive function of residents in plateau regions. We conducted a cross-sectional study in Chengguan District, Lhasa from March to June 2022.Using a cluster random sampling design, a total of 3,742 eligible residents were enrolled.Data collection utilized a customized version of the Social Demographic and Health Information Form, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Chinese Mini - Mental Status (CMMS). In the sample of residents from Chengguan District of Lhasa, the mean Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score was 4.35 ± 2.84, and the mean Chinese Mini-Mental Status (CMMS) score was 27.20 ± 3.73. For the cognitively normal group and cognitive impairment group, the mean CMMS scores were 27.97 ± 2.54 and 19.46 ± 4.85, respectively. The overall detection rate of cognitive impairment in the study sample was 9.04%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that, after adjusting for confounding factors, residents with poor sleep quality had a 1.838-fold increased risk of cognitive impairment compared to those with good sleep quality (OR = 1.838, 95% CI = 1.281–2.639). The prevalence of cognitive impairment among residents in Chengguan District, Lhasa, is relatively high, and poor sleep quality is a significant risk factor for cognitive impairment. Therefore, relevant departments should focus on susceptible populations with poor sleep quality and may consider measures such as improving living environments, adjusting lifestyles, and providing psychological support to enhance sleep quality, thereby improving cognitive function and promoting overall physical and mental health.