Changing rhythm of life modern epidemic of mobile phone misuse
Introduction: The near epidemic and extensive use and dependence on mobile phone usage by all strata of modern society has had effects on sleep patterns, social interactions and work outputs. The study aims to examine the relationship between mobile phone usage and sleep patterns among medical students. Methodology: A cross sectional survey was conducted involving 294 UG MBBS students aged between 17 and 25 years who were questioned on their sleep patterns and mobile phone usage. This was assessed by a self administered, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire. In addition, they were also interviewed with a semi structured questionnaire on the pattern of their daily mobile phone usage. Results: Mean age of students (SD) was 20.74 years 1.72) All the students owned a smartphone and mainly used it for communication, social networking, gaming, reading, watching movies and taking photographs and videos. 42.85 of students used their phone for up to 60 minutes before sleeping and 45.23% used it for up to 30 minutes before sleeping. Night time usage of mobile phones was significantly (p<0.05) associated with increased difficulty in waking up, wake time tiredness, decreased concentration, sleep latency and tendency to miss or be late to classes. Further, greater hours of mobile phone usage correlated to higher PQSI scores, meaning poor sleep quality. These problems were more prevalent in students living in hostels compared to those students living with their families. Conclusion: Use of mobile phones before bedtime negatively impacts sleep, psychological health and academic performance of students. Avoidance or restriction of late night mobile phone use should be encouraged.