Factors Influencing Sleep Health Disparities in Adults from Rural Appalachia

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Sleep deficiencies are prevalent in rural Appalachia, with 64.9% experiencing insomnia, 51.3% at risk for OSA, and 44.8% reporting insufficient sleep.
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Sociodemographic factors significantly influence sleep health, with insomnia rates declining from 82.9% among low earners to 44.4% among high earners.
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Female sex, non-full-time employment, and poor diet quality are associated with higher insomnia prevalence in rural Appalachian adults.
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Older age, male sex, and higher body mass index are linked to elevated OSA risk, highlighting distinct risk profiles for sleep disorders.
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The study underscores the need for targeted, culturally appropriate interventions to address sleep health disparities in underserved communities.

Jama Network Open

by Mairead E. Moloney, Emily Slade, Joon Chung, Maliha Mehnaz Mitu, Michael A. Grandner, Daniela C. Moga
April 9, 2026

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