Sleep Patterns in Patients After Solid Organ Transplantation Including Gender and Age Differences. Survey Results From One Transplantation Centre in Poland.

INTRODUCTION: Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining health. Transplant patients are exposed to numerous stressors and are at risk of sleep disturbances. The aim of this study was to assess the sleep patterns of transplant patients.

METHODS: An anonymous paper survey was carried out among patients from one transplant center in Poland. Respondents were asked about the quality and quantity of sleep and the overall impact of the transplantation on their night rest. Data were collected from June to November 2023.

RESULTS: Data were obtained from 212 respondents (122 males and 90 females), aged 48.38 ± 13.68. The positive impact of transplantation on sleep hygiene was indicated by 57.4% of respondents, 28.9% observed no impact, and 13.6% rated the impact as negative. Our study showed that sleep is more satisfying in males than in females (62.8% of males and 46.7% of females). The analysis revealed that 38.9% of females need 30 minutes more than men to fall asleep. Additionally, females tend to get up half an hour later compared to men. About 71.9% of males declared good well-being the next day compared to 62.2% of females. Furthermore females declared more sleepiness the next day. The study also showed that older transplant recipients (over 50 years-of-age) report more frequent awakenings at night.

CONCLUSIONS: The data collected showed differences in sleep patterns according to gender and age. Females and older patients should be screened for sleep disturbances during post-transplantation care.