Liu, J., Zhang, A., & Li, L. (2012). Sleep duration and overweight/obesity in children: Review and implications for pediatric nursing. Journal for Specialists in Pediatric Nursing, 17(3), 193-204.
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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to review evidence from the last 5 years (2006-2011) regarding a relationship between sleep duration and childhood overweight/obesity.

Conclusions

Among the 25 studies selected from PubMed and Web of Knowledge databases, all indicated significant associations between short sleep duration and childhood overweight/obesity. Studies explored a range of pediatric populations, methodologies, and potential contributing factors.

Practice Implications

Childhood sleep duration may be a modifiable risk factor in preventing obesity. In addition to identifying and assessing patients' sleep habits, nurses play important roles as educators regarding the importance of adequate sleep and promoting it in children.

MeSH Terms
    Adolescent
    Age Factors
    Body Mass Index
    Child
    Child, Preschool
    Female
    Follow-Up Studies
    Humans
    Male
    Obesity/complications*
    Obesity/diagnosis
    Overweight
    Pediatric Nursing/methods
    Risk Assessment
    Severity of Illness Index
    Sex Factors
    Sleep/physiology*
    Sleep Deprivation/etiology
    Sleep Deprivation/nursing
    Sleep Deprivation/physiopathology
    Sleep Wake Disorders/etiology*
    Sleep Wake Disorders/nursing*
    Sleep Wake Disorders/physiopathology
    Socioeconomic Factors
    Time Factors