Sleep/wake rhythm modifications in the Italian population during SARS-CoV2 pandemic: a web-based cross-sectional survey

M. Storari, G. Orrù, M. Manconi, L. Caruso, D. Viscuso

Department of Surgical Science, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy. m.storari93@gmail.com

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• Infectious Diseases
• Neurology

OBJECTIVE: The study aims to investigate in a representative sample of the Italian population whether the SARS-CoV2 pandemic and the subsequent home isolation had repercussion on the daily sleep/wake cycling and habits.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A web-based cross-sectional survey consisted of various multiple-choice questions concerning demographic characteristics, sleep habits, and sleep-related problems was broadcast through mainstream social-media. Individuals were randomly allowed to participate from April 29th to May 17th, namely 50 days after the lockdown imposition and the day before its abrogation.

RESULTS: 58.84% of respondents experienced a change in their sleep habits. 71% of those whose sleep changed showed a delayed sleep pattern. Overall, a two-fold risk of delayed sleep pattern without any change in total sleep time emerged during the investigation period. Females emerged almost 2 times more likely to modify their sleep habits than males. Youths were also more likely to experience modifications than old people, who conversely appeared protected. A significant improvement in daytime sleepiness occurred during the home isolation which additionally correlated with delayed bedtime and less sleep time.

CONCLUSIONS: A high rate of change in sleep habits, especially among youths and females, occurred in Italian population during the home isolation to limit the SARS-CoV2 pandemic. Moreover, self-reported daytime sleepiness decreased in severity.

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