Knowledge And Awareness Of Sleep Disorders Among Healthcare Professionals In KSA: A Protocol For Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Sleep disorders pose significant health challenges, yet their recognition and management among healthcare professionals are often inadequate. This systematic review aimed to assess the level of knowledge and awareness regarding sleep disorders among healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL databases. Search terms included variations of "sleep disorders," "healthcare professionals," and "Saudi Arabia." Inclusion criteria comprised studies examining knowledge and awareness levels among healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia. Six eli[1]gible studies, spanning medical students, primary care physicians (PCPs), and primary healthcare physicians, were selected for analysis.

Results: The review identified a substantial gap between interest and actual knowledge levels among medical students, indicating insufficient education on sleep medicine within medical schools. Similarly, PCPs and primary healthcare physicians exhibited poor awareness and knowledge of sleep disorders, despite recognizing their clinical importance. Variations in attitudes and knowledge levels were observed across different regions and institutions in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced education and awareness programs targeting medical students and healthcare professionals to improve the recognition, diagnosis, and management of sleep disorders in Saudi Arabia. Addressing these deficiencies is crucial for optimizing patient care and outcomes in the field of sleep medicine within the region.