Social Sciences and Humanities Open (Jan 2024)
Public health implications of sleep health in Black Americans using the socio-ecological model and a life-course approach: A systematic literature review
Abstract
Introduction: Black Americans face significant challenges related to sleep health, including insufficient sleep duration (IS), defined as fewer than 7 h per night, and compromised sleep quality, understood as the subjective perception of one's sleep experience. These issues not only carry broad health implications but also exacerbate existing health disparities. Methods: This study utilizes the Socio-Ecological Model (SEM) and Life-Course Approach (LCA) to comprehensively examine the multilevel influences on sleep health among Black Americans. The SEM explores how factors from individual biological nuances to overarching public policies impact sleep, while the LCA focuses on the temporal impact of early life experiences, developmental transitions, and the accumulation of advantages and disadvantages. Findings: Our literature review reveals a complex interaction of societal structures, environmental factors, and individual behaviors that influence both the duration and quality of sleep among Black Americans. The nuanced understanding provided by combining the SEM and LCA frameworks highlights critical areas for intervention. Potential interventions: The study identifies potential pathways for public health interventions and strategies that take a holistic and multi-faceted approach. These interventions aim to address both the quantitative aspects of sleep, such as duration, and qualitative aspects, such as sleep quality, to improve sleep health among Black Americans comprehensively. Conclusion: Effectively addressing the intertwined issues of sleep duration and quality is crucial for enhancing overall sleep health in Black American communities. Our findings underscore the importance of integrated approaches that consider both socio-ecological and life-course factors in tackling sleep health disparities.
