Sleep disorders among egyptian anesthesiologists
Mohammed A. Salem, Asmaa A. Sayed, Hala A. Hussein, Dalia A. Mohammed, Rabab M. Sabry, Shehab M. Moawad, Rehab M. SabryBackground and aim
Sleep disturbances are well-documented occupational health concerns among anesthesiologists worldwide; however no prior studies have quantified their prevalence or predictors within the Egyptian healthcare context, where structural pressures such as extended work hours and limited regulatory oversight may amplify the risk. We aimed to determine the prevalence of sleep disturbances among Egyptian anesthesiologists, identify modifiable occupational predictors, and evaluate their impact on daily functioning.
Patients and methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among anesthesiologists at Kasr Al- Ainy and El Hussien Hospitals (December 2023–April 2024). In all, 105 participants completed an online survey comprising demographic data and the Insomnia Severity Index. Statistical analysis used SPSS, version 27, with logistic regression to identify independent predictors.
Results
The mean age of the participants was 32±6 years, 57.1% were male. The mean working hours were 13±3/day, and 49.5% worked across multiple facilities. Sleep disturbances were highly prevalent: 88.6% scored above the Insomnia Severity Index threshold (53.3% subthreshold insomnia, 28.6% moderate clinical insomnia, 6.7% severe clinical insomnia), and 95.2% reported impaired daily functioning. Daily working hours (odds ratio=1.2, 95% confidence interval: 1.1–1.4,
Conclusion
Sleep disturbances are highly prevalent among Egyptian anesthesiologists, with extended working hours representing the primary modifiable occupational factor associated with insomnia severity. These findings suggest that structured work-hour regulations and scheduling flexibility warrant evaluation as potential interventions to improve physician well-being.