Journal of Sleep Disorders & Therapy
Open Access

Abstract

Sleep Disorder among Adolescents in Ajman, UAE

Ajeena Abdul Khader*, Shahnaz Koolippulakkal and Shatha Al Sharbatti

Objectives: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of sleep disorders, factors affecting sleep disorders and prevalence of different types of sleep disorders among adolescents.

Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out in 324 students of grade 10,11,12. The inclusion criteria include both male and female in the age group 15-18 years of any nationality. Ethical consent was obtained from parents. A validated questionnaire was given to find out the presence of sleep problems and associated factors.

Results: According to our study from a total of 324, 138 (43%) participants reported to have perceived sleep problems. Sleep disorder was most prevalent among females (65.4%). 65.5% of the participants with sleep disorder had a positive family history of sleep problems. Among 131 participants with perceived sleep problems, 95 (72.5%) had sleep problems according to Pittsburgh global score. Among 183 participants who said not to have sleep problems, 103 (56.3%) had sleep problems. 68.5% of the participants had poor sleep quality. Sleep latency was prevalent for 55.8%. 22.5% of the participants had Short sleep duration. 53.4% of the participants had poor sleep efficiency. Sleep disturbance was prevalent for 91.3% of the participants. Only 9.6% use sleep medications. 56.8% of the participants had daytime dysfunction. The prevalence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Insomnia and Restless Leg Syndrome was 8.9%, 34% and 55.6% respectively. Males had higher prevalence of Obstructive sleep apnea and Insomnia (11.1% and 42.6%) and prevalence for Restless Leg Syndrome was similar in both males and females (55.6%).

Conclusion: Out of 312, 199 (63.2%) participants had prevalence of sleep problem according to Pittsburgh global score for sleep problem. Age and Grade were the significant factors that affect participants sleep problem. Among 131 participants with perceived sleep problems 95 (72.5%) had sleep problems. Among 183 participants who said not to have sleep problems, 103 (56.3%) had sleep problems. Insomnia and Restless Leg Syndrome was more common disorders among the participants. Younger age adolescents have 70% higher risk for having sleep problem than older age adolescents for having sleep problem (Odds ratio=1.673). Adolescents in grade 10 and 11 have 70% higher risk for sleep problems than those who are in higher grade (Odds ratio=1.675).

Published Date: 2022-03-24; Received Date: 2022-02-22