Prevalence and Triggers of Syncope among Undergraduate Students in a Nigerian University: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract: Syncope, defined as a transient loss of consciousness (TLOC) accompanied by an inability to maintain postural tone and followed by complete recovery, is caused by a temporary reduction in cerebral perfusion. It is a common clinical condition with varying prevalence across demographics and settings. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, predisposing factors, causes, and triggers of syncope among undergraduate students of the College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed among 357 students. The participants included 146 males (40.9%) and 211 females (59.1%), aged between 16 and 30 years, with a mean age of 24.23 ± 0.84 years. Among the participants, 44 students (12.3%) reported experiencing syncope, while 313 (87.7%) had no history of syncope. Additionally, 52.7% experienced presyncope symptoms without actual fainting. Common triggers of presyncope included rapid postural changes, head turning, physical exertion, post-exercise recovery, sleep deprivation, medication use, heat exposure, and fasting or hunger. Reported underlying conditions associated with syncope included peptic ulcers, allergies, hypertension, pneumonia, anemia, chest pain, and asthma. The first episode of syncope was most frequently reported between the ages of 16 and 20 years. Notably, only a small percentage of individuals who experienced syncope sought medical attention. Early recognition of syncope warning signs and the application of preventive strategies such as physical counter-pressure maneuvers, adequate hydration, and liberal salt intake can help reduce incidence. Further research is recommended in clinical and broader population-based settings, especially in developing countries where current data on syncope are limited or outdated. Keywords: Prevalence, Presyncope, Students, Syncope, Triggers, Undergraduate. Title: Prevalence and Triggers of Syncope among Undergraduate Students in a Nigerian University: A Cross-Sectional Study Author: Afuberoh Francis Chukwudi, Edwin Nwobodo, Ezeokafor Emmanuel Nonso, Ikechukwu Maryann, Anyaogu Charles Chinemeze, Okoye Ogochukwu Fidelis International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 4, October 2025 - December 2025 Page No: 175-184 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 22-October-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17463984 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/prevalence-and-triggers-of-syncope-among-undergraduate-students-in-a-nigerian-university-a-cross-sectional-study