Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Among Dental Interns in Egyptian Universities

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.

Inclusion criteria

Dental interns enrolled in selected Egyptian universities. Interns willing to participate voluntarily in the study. Interns able to complete the online questionnaire.

Exclusion criteria

Undergraduate dental students other than interns. Graduated dentists or postgraduate dentists. Incomplete questionnaire responses. Participants who decline to provide informed consent.