Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16(5), 885; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16050885
Abstract
Poor sleep is associated with bad health outcomes, worse wellbeing and decreases in performance, productivity and safety at work. Police officers are exposed to several risk factors including extended work schedules, shift work, occupational stress, dangerous and traumatic events and can, as such, develop sleep problems. The aim of the present study was to analyze the sleep quality among police officers. A systematic literature search, in PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, ISI/Web of Science (WoS) and the Cochrane Library was conducted. Original articles, published in English, French, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese, the primary objective of which was the evaluation of the quality of sleep through the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) in Police Forces, were selected. From an initial sample of 1,149 studies, 13 articles were included in the meta-analysis (3,722 police officers). The pooled prevalence of bad sleep quality in police officers was 51% [95%CI 42–60%]. The pooled global score of the PSQI was 5.6 [95%CI 5.0–6.3], corresponding to a low average quality. At the meta-regressions, statistically significant associations could be found for work seniority (in terms of years of service) and being on shift. The poor quality of sleep in police officers could have negative consequences for workers’ health and for the safety of third parts. The implementation of health and sleep hygiene promotion programs in police forces is strongly recommended.
Conclusions
Sleep disorders are a relevant issue among police officers, and can cause significant damage to health. Sleep health promotion programs are, therefore, strongly needed in police forces. The health and wellbeing of the police officers, because of the type of their work, should be pursued not only from the viewpoint of occupational medicine but also within the perspective of public health, in order to guarantee the safety of all of society. Society as a whole has a high interest in improving the health of police officers. The scientific world should contribute to this need by improving the quality of studies dedicated to police work.