Association of Excessive Mobile Phone Usage With Sleep Quality and Fatigue Severity: an Epidemiologic Survey in Saudi Population

Abstract

Overview

This epidemiologic survey aimed to evaluate the implications of mobile phone usage on sleep quality and fatigue severity among the Saudi population through the use of standard questionnaires.

Methods

• The study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, gathering data from 251 mobile phone users aged between 15 and 65 from September 2019 to January 2020.
• Data collection involved interviews on mobile phone use habits and assessments using the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS).
• Statistical analysis included Spearman’s correlations and linear regression, executed using SPSS V.22.

Findings

Significant findings were noted as follows:

• Increase in PSQI and FSS scores corresponded with an increase in daily mobile phone usage. Specifically, usage exceeding one hour daily significantly worsened sleep quality and increased fatigue.
• The placement of mobile phones inside the bedroom, particularly near the pillow or inside the bed, was associated with higher PSQI and FSS scores.
• A strong correlation was observed between high PSQI and FSS scores with daily usage.

Conclusion

Excessive and improper use of mobile phones is linked with poor sleep quality and higher fatigue levels in the studied population, demonstrating a clear connection between mobile phone habits and health risks.