Epidemiology of Insomnia: Prevalence, Course, Risk Factors, and Public Health Burden

Sleep Med Clin. 2022 Jun;17(2):173-191. doi: 10.1016/j.jsmc.2022.03.003. Epub 2022 Apr 23.

Abstract

This article summarizes epidemiologic evidence on insomnia, including the prevalence, incidence, and risk factors, as well as its course and consequences. Approximately 10% of the adult population suffers from an insomnia disorder and another 20% experiences occasional insomnia symptoms. Women, older adults, and people with socioeconomic hardship are more vulnerable to insomnia. Insomnia is often a chronic condition, with a 40% persistence rate over a 5-year period. Insomnia is a significant public health problem that should be addressed at the individual level with appropriate clinical care and at the population level with large-scale sleep health interventions.

Keywords: Epidemiology; Incidence; Insomnia; Prevalence; Risk factors; Sleep disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Prevalence
  • Public Health
  • Risk Factors
  • Sleep
  • Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders* / epidemiology