EXAMINING INSOMNIA TREATMENT ADHERENCE AND OUTCOMES IN BLACK WOMEN VETERANS

Introduction Black identified women and veterans consistently experience disproportionately higher rates of insomnia. Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) improves sleep outcomes, although higher rates of attrition and sub-optimal adherence in these groups can limit symptom improvement. Few studies have examined CBT-I treatment adherence and outcomes in women veterans, particularly among those who identify as black. . The current study examined differences in adherence and treatment outcomes in Black identified women veterans compared to white identified women veterans who engaged in CBT-I. Methods As part of a larger clinical trial (NCT02076165), 26 black and 25 white women veterans with insomnia disorder completed a 5-session CBT-I program. Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) and sleep diaries were completed at baseline, post-treatment, and 3-month follow-up. Multiple and fractional regression models were used to evaluate the association between race and change in ISI, change in sleep diary sleep efficiency (SE), and adherence to bedtime and rise time during CBT-I. Results Mean change from baseline to 3-month follow-up in ISI score for black and white women were -7.31 and -7.97 and mean change in diary SE was +14.9% and +10.8%, respectively. Race did not impact change-scores for ISI or SE (1.09 < F < 1.8, p>.05); however, in the fractional regression model, (Χ2=6.9, p=.008; pseudo R2=.058) race was a significant predictor (OR=.27, p=.009) of adherence to prescribed bedtime in the second week of CBT-I, with black women less likely to adhere to prescribed bedtime than women. Race was not a significant predictor of wake time adherence. Conclusion Both black and white women veterans benefitted from CBT-I; however, early adherence to the recommended sleep schedule was lower in black women. Future research could expand on these findings by examining potential barriers in early adherence to recommendations, and how to improve early adherence to ensure that therapy meets the needs of all patients. Support (if any) VA/HSR&D IIR-HX002300 (PI: Martin), NIH/NHLBI K24HL143055 and VA HSR&D RCS 20-191. Dr. May supported by the VA Office of Academic Affiliations.