Sleep disorders accelerate biological aging through depressive symptoms: Evidence from NHANES

This study investigates the impact of sleep disorders on biological aging, examining the mediating role of depressive symptoms and the moderating effect of a healthy lifestyle. Data were drawn from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for the years 2005–2014, with a sample of 18,862 participants aged 20–79. Biological aging was assessed using the Klemera-Doubal method (KDM-BA), depressive symptoms were measured with the PHQ-9 scale, and lifestyle factors were evaluated based on smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity. Results indicate that sleep disorders significantly accelerate biological aging ( B = 4.347, p < 0.001), with depressive symptoms acting as a mediator (indirect effect B = 1.127, p < 0.001). A healthy lifestyle moderates these effects, reducing both depressive symptoms and biological aging ( B = −0.205, p < 0.001). These findings highlight the importance of addressing sleep disorders and promoting a healthy lifestyle to mitigate their adverse effects on biological aging and promote better health and longevity.