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Published on: December 6, 2016
Analysis of General Knowledge on Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) among Italian Pediatricians
Stefano Saran1, Sabina Saccomanno2, Simonetta Viti3
1Department of Human Sciences, Innovation and Territory, School of Dentistry, Postgraduate of Orthodontics, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy.
Insights
Italian pediatricians show good knowledge of childhood obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) symptoms and risk factors. Further education is recommended to enhance awareness of this complex condition and its associated health issues.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Public Health Awareness
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common condition in children, yet awareness among healthcare providers can vary.
- Effective management of pediatric OSAS requires a multidisciplinary approach, as recommended by the American Pediatric Academy.
- Assessing pediatricians' knowledge is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the current level of knowledge among Italian pediatricians regarding the diagnosis of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted using an anonymized electronic survey distributed via Google Forms.
- The survey targeted Italian pediatricians, with 299 out of 350 invited participants responding.
- Descriptive statistical analysis was used to analyze the collected data from 297 pediatricians.
Main Results:
- Pediatricians demonstrated strong recognition of common nocturnal and daytime symptoms associated with OSAS.
- A significant majority of respondents (68.9%) considered oral and otorhinolaryngologist areas during checkups.
- Awareness of patient weight (70.6%) and the regional diagnostic-therapeutic-assistance pathway (62.8%) was also noted.
Conclusions:
- The study indicates a generally good level of knowledge regarding pediatric OSAS among Italian pediatricians.
- Disseminating further information on OSAS and its associated health issues is recommended to improve comprehensive care.
- The complexity of OSAS presents inherent limitations in fully assessing and managing the condition.
Introduction:
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a disorder characterized by partial or total airway obstruction during sleep. Studies have shown variability in the level of knowledge and awareness about OSAS among pediatricians. The management of childhood obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) depends on the severity of the disease, the presence of comorbidities, and the child's age. The American Pediatric Academy recommends a multidisciplinary approach involving a pediatrician, a sleep specialist, and an otolaryngologist to provide comprehensive care for children with OSAS. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to evaluate the level of knowledge among pediatricians in Italy regarding the diagnosis of pediatric OSAS.
Material And Methods:
An anonymized survey was conducted among Italian pediatricians. The survey was administered electronically using Google Forms, and a total of 350 pediatricians were invited to participate. Out of the 350 invitations, 299 pediatricians responded to the survey. The statistical analysis performed consisted of descriptive analysis. The study included 297 pediatricians.
Results:
Pediatricians demonstrated proficiency in identifying common nocturnal and day symptoms of OSAS. A majority (68.9%) considered the oral and otorhinolaryngologist areas during checkups. Approximately 70.6% took patient weight into account, and 62.8% were aware of the regional diagnostic-therapeutic-assistance pathway.
Conclusions:
According to the results of this manuscript, there is evidence of a good level of knowledge about OSAS, but disseminating more information about OSAS and all the health issues associated with this syndrome is suggested. This study also has limitations caused by the complexity of the pathology.
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