Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Among Dental Interns in Egyptian Universities

Overview

Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common yet underdiagnosed sleep-related breathing disorder in children that may result in serious health and behavioral complications if left untreated. Dental professionals can play an important role in the early identification and referral of pediatric OSA cases during routine dental examinations. However, limited knowledge and inadequate clinical practices may affect their ability to contribute effectively to patient care. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the management of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea among dental interns in selected Egyptian universities using a validated questionnaire.

Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by repeated episodes of partial or complete upper airway obstruction during sleep, leading to disrupted ventilation and altered sleep patterns. If left undiagnosed and untreated, pediatric OSA may negatively affect children's physical growth, behavior, cognitive performance, and cardiovascular health. Dental professionals are in a unique position to recognize early signs and symptoms of pediatric OSA during routine oral examinations, including mouth breathing, enlarged tonsils, craniofacial abnormalities, and bruxism. Consequently, dentists can contribute significantly to the early screening, referral, and multidisciplinary management of pediatric OSA. Dental interns represent future oral healthcare providers; therefore, evaluating their preparedness regarding pediatric OSA is essential. However, there is limited evidence regarding dental interns' knowledge, attitude, and practice toward pediatric OSA in Egypt. This observational cross-sectional study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the management of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea among dental interns in selected Egyptian universities using a validated self-administered questionnaire. Additionally, the study aims to identify possible gaps in awareness and clinical practice and to evaluate the association between knowledge, attitude, practice, and demographic characteristics.

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