A cross-sectional study explored the association between weight-adjusted waist index and sleep disorders

Background A novel way to quantify obesity is the weight-adjusted waist circumference index (WWI). To date, although studies have investigated the relationship between obesity and sleep, the specific relationship between WWI and sleep disorders is yet unknown. Therefore, this study sought to determine whether WWI and sleep disorders were related in American adults. Methods The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2020, comprising 46,458 participants, provided the data for this cross-sectional study. A range of statistical techniques, such as multiple regression analysis, smoothed curve fitting, threshold effects analysis, and subgroup analysis, were employed to investigate the connection between WWI and sleep disorders. Results This study involved 46,458 participants, of whom 1,163 (25.03%) suffered from sleep disorders. In models fully adjusted for potential confounders, WWI was positively associated with sleep disorders [1.18, (1.13–1.22)]. Compared to those in the lowest quartile, those in the highest WWI quartile had a 43% higher probability of having a sleep disorder [1.43, (1.32–1.56)]. A nonlinear association between WWI and sleep disorders was revealed by smooth curve fitting. Subgroup analyses showed that it was more significant in the male group, age ≤ 60 years, non-Hispanic blacks, and no physical activity. Conclusion Our findings indicate a positive correlation between WWI and the likelihood of sleep disorders. These results suggest that monitoring WWI could help in managing and potentially preventing sleep disorders.