Association between the cardiometabolic index and sleep health in the United States: A cross-sectional study

Background: The cardiometabolic index (CMI) is a novel indicator of central obesity. This study aimed to investigate the association between CMI and sleep health. Methods: Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we calculated CMI values and employed univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to determine whether CMI is an independent risk factor for sleep health. CMI was categorized into quartiles (Q1 to Q4). Subgroup analyses were conducted, and interaction P-values were calculated to identify high-risk populations. Results: A total of 6,600 participants were included in the study. The prevalence of sleep disturbances was 22.2% (n = 1,589), and 7.6% (n = 504) of participants reported sleep disorders. Higher CMI levels were significantly associated with poor sleep health. Specifically, CMI was independently associated with an increased risk of sleep disturbances (OR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.19-1.54) and sleep disorders (OR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.0002-1.50). Compared to the Q1 group, the risk of sleep disturbances increased by 49% in the Q4 group. Subgroup analyses revealed statistically significant interactions between CMI and sleep disturbances or sleep disorders in males and individuals with hypertension (all P for interaction < 0.05). These findings highlight the need for increased attention to this association, particularly among males and hypertensive populations. Conclusion: The findings suggested that CMI might be independently associated with sleep health, particularly sleep disturbances. Interventions targeting CMI could potentially improve sleep health outcomes. “Level of Evidence: Level II, controlled trial without randomization”