Sleep disorders among medical students: Prevalence and associated factors
S. Bradai, N. Ketata, H. Ben ayed, M. Ben Hamida, M. Kassis, J. Jedidi, S. YaichIntroduction
Sleep disorders are highly prevalent worldwide, and medical students (MS) are particularly vulnerable because of the considerable academic pressure they face.
Objectives
This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of insomnia among medical students and to identify their associated factors
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among a randomized sample of MS in Sfax, Southern Tunisia, during the Academic year 2024-2025. Data collection was performed using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire including the validated Insomnia Severity Index. A cut-off score of 8 or higher was adopted to determine the prevalence of insomnia among participants
Results
A total of 73 MS were eligible for the study. The median age was 21 years with an interquartile range (IQR)= [20-23,5 years]. There were 41 females (56.2%), giving a male to female ratio of 1.28. History of chronic disease was noted among 14 MS (19.1%) and 41 MS had neck pain (56.2%). As for lifestyle behaviours, 23 MS (31.5%) were smokers and 8 MS (11%) practised sports.
Prevalence of Insomnia among MS was 60.3% (n=44), of whom, 3 MS (6.18%) had Severe insomnia.
Insomnia was statistically associated with having chronic disease (OR=2,1; p=0,04), having neck pain (OR=1.951; p=0.011), depression (OR=1.715; p=<0.001), anxiety (OR=1.696; p=0.025) and stress (OR 1.409 ; p=0.013). Besides, practicing sports was statistically associated with lower prevalence of insomnia among MS (OR=0.21; P=0.034).
Conclusions
A high prevalence of Insomnia was observed among MS, with multiple psychological and lifestyle factors associated with insomnia. These findings highlighted the need to prioritize mental health interventions to promote well-being and improve sleep quality in this vulnerable population.
Disclosure of Interest
None Declared