Association between ramadan fasting, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and academic performance among Iraqi university students: A cross-sectional study

Our findings demonstrate that Ramadan fasting significantly impacts students' sleep patterns and fatigue levels, with nuanced effects on academic performance. While fatigue negatively correlated with outcomes, the counterintuitive stress-performance association suggests high-achievers may maintain performance despite challenges. Future research should explore targeted interventions to support student wellbeing during religious observances, while institutions should adapt policies to accommodate the unique challenges faced by fasting students.