Occupational and psychosocial correlates of sleep disturbance among Chinese expatriate employees in Iraq’s Maysan oilfields: a cross-sectional study using regression and network analysis - Report - MDSpire

Occupational and psychosocial correlates of sleep disturbance among Chinese expatriate employees in Iraq’s Maysan oilfields: a cross-sectional study using regression and network analysis

  • By

  • Ziming Liu

  • Meihui Li

  • Chuanjiang Yang

  • Chun’e Zhang

  • Gonglu Gu

  • Yiran Zhang

  • Hongye Liu

  • Jing Du

  • Yi Fu

  • Shun Han

  • Qingwei Li

  • June 10, 2026

  • 0 min

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Work-Related and Psychosocial Factors Associated with Sleep Disturbances

Overview

This study examines sleep disturbances among Chinese expatriate oilfield workers in Iraq, revealing a prevalence of 11.9% to 25.2% depending on the assessment criteria. Key factors associated with poorer sleep quality include higher educational attainment, depressive symptoms, occupational stress, emotional exhaustion, and environmental stress.

Background

Chinese expatriate workers face unique occupational and psychosocial stressors that can significantly impact their health, particularly sleep quality. Understanding the prevalence and correlates of sleep disturbances in this population is crucial for developing targeted interventions. This research addresses a gap in the literature regarding the health of expatriate workers in high-stress environments.

Data Highlights

MeasureResult
Median PSQI Score3 (IQR 1–6)
Sleep Disturbance Prevalence (PSQI > 7)11.9% (95% CI 9.7%–14.3%)
Sleep Disturbance Prevalence (PSQI > 5)25.2% (95% CI 22.3%–28.3%)
Sleep-Related Concern (GHQ-12)61.3% (95% CI 57.9%–64.7%)

Key Findings

  • Sleep disturbance prevalence was 11.9% using PSQI > 7 and 25.2% using PSQI > 5.
  • 61.3% of participants reported sleep-related concern on the GHQ-12.
  • Poor sleep quality was associated with higher educational attainment, depressive symptoms, and occupational stress.
  • Emotional exhaustion and environmental stress were significant predictors of sleep quality.
  • Subjective sleep quality and daytime dysfunction were key domains affecting sleep quality.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should consider the psychosocial and occupational factors influencing sleep disturbances in expatriate workers. Interventions aimed at reducing occupational stress and enhancing emotional support may improve sleep quality in this population. Regular screening for sleep disturbances could be beneficial in managing the health of expatriate employees.

Conclusion

This study highlights the prevalence of sleep disturbances among Chinese expatriate oilfield workers in Iraq and identifies critical factors associated with sleep quality. Addressing these factors may enhance overall well-being and productivity in this workforce.

Related Resources & Content

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  3. npj Digital Medicine, 2025 -- Association of sleep patterns assessed by a smartphone application with work productivity loss among Japanese employees
  4. BMC Psychiatry, 2025 -- Trajectories of sleep disturbance among school teachers in Shenzhen, China: patterns, predictors, and mental health correlates
  5. International Classification of Sleep Disorders | ICSD | AASM -- Clinical Resources
  6. BMC Public Health, 2026 -- Shift work and risk of sleep disturbances in occupational populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis
  7. International Classification of Sleep Disorders | ICSD | AASM
  8. Shift work and risk of sleep disturbances in occupational populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis | BMC Public Health | Springer Nature Link

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