Association Between Sleep Quality and Academic Performance Among Undergraduate Medical Health Sciences Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
Background: Adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining memory, emotional regulation, mental sharpness, and general health. Students pursuing medical degrees frequently experience interrupted sleep patterns because of rigorous academic workloads and hospital duties, potentially harming both their wellness and educational outcomes. Aim: This study aims to examine how sleep quality influences academic performance in medical and health sciences undergraduates at Batterjee Medical College, Saudi Arabia, in the 2024-2025 academic year. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 175 medical students was carried out using standardized questionnaires, such as the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), to assess sleep quality. The students' academic performance was assessed according to their cumulative grade point average (GPA). Results: A total of 175 medical students participated in the study, of whom 118 (67.4%) were male. Regarding age distribution, 95 (54.3%) were aged 18-22, and 41 (23.4%) were aged 23-27. The participants came from various specialties, including pharmacy, dentistry, medicine, physical therapy, and nursing, with educational levels ranging from preparatory year to postgraduate. Among the 175 responses received, 93 (53.1%) had an outstanding GPA, 13 (7.4%) had a good GPA, and two (1.1%) had a below-average GPA. The average PSQI score was 6.7 (±3.5). Poor sleep quality was reported by 129 (73.7%) of participants, while 46 (26.3%)…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.
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