Cross-sectional study identifying the prevalence of sleep disturbances and associated risk factors in medical students

Sleep disturbances can lead to poor academic and health outcomes. There is a gap in the current literature regarding the prevalence of sleep disturbances and their impact on various associated factors. Our study seeks to understand the prevalence of sleep disturbances, and their impact on medical students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Medicine between April 2023 and September 2023. A sample of 70 medical students provided answers to a novel questionnaire, the BDI, and the PSQI, to evaluate lifestyle habits and demographics, depressive symptoms, and sleep quality. Univariate linear regression identified chronic diseases, stress experienced in the past 12 months, sleep duration, difficulty falling or staying asleep, sleep pill consumption, and BDI score as strong predictors of the PSQI global score. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that chronic diseases and depression were the most influential factors influencing participants' sleep quality. Sleep quality in students is significantly affected by chronic diseases and depressive symptoms, highlighting the need for preventive measures.