Sleep problems of children with Down syndrome in northern China

Y Zhang1, L M Li2, J N Ding3

  • 1Department of Physical Education, Shandong Jianzhu University, Jinan, China.

Insights

Sleep problems are common in Chinese children with Down syndrome (DS), with nearly 70% affected. Sleep-disordered breathing and short sleep duration are prevalent issues requiring attention and intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Sleep Medicine
  • Genetics and Developmental Disorders

Background:

  • Limited research exists on current sleep issues in Chinese children with Down syndrome (DS).
  • This study addresses the prevalence and characteristics of sleep problems in school-aged children with DS in northern China.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the current sleep problems experienced by school-aged children with Down syndrome (DS) in northern China.

Main Methods:

  • A convenience sample of parents of children with DS was recruited from special education schools in Shandong Province, China.
  • The Chinese version of the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire was used to assess sleep problems.

Main Results:

  • Parents reported an average sleep duration of 9.7 hours, with 62.0% sleeping less than 10 hours.
  • The overall prevalence of sleep problems was 69.8%, with sleep-disordered breathing (59.2%), sleep duration (33.8%), and bedtime resistance (32.0%) being most common.
  • Younger children (6-8 years) experienced more severe bedtime resistance, sleep anxiety, and parasomnias compared to older children (9-12 years).

Conclusions:

  • Sleep problems are significant in children with Down syndrome (DS) in northern China and warrant clinical attention.
  • Caregivers and healthcare professionals should increase awareness and implement targeted interventions to enhance sleep quality in this population.
Abstract

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