Sleep Disorders among University Athletes in Senegal: A Cross-Sectional Study

Context: Sleep is essential for the recovery and performance of athletes. In sub-Saharan Africa, data on athletes' sleep are almost nonexistent, limiting the possibilities for appropriate screening and management. Objective: To assess the prevalence of sleep disorders and identify risk factors among Senegalese university athletes. Method: Cross-sectional study conducted among 300 athletes and coaches of Gaston Berger University (Saint-Louis, Senegal) between January and March 2025, using 2 validated questionnaires: Athlete Sleep Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ) and Athlete Sleep Behaviour Questionnaire (ASBQ). The Sleep Difficulty Score (SDS) was used to grade sleep disorders into four levels (none, mild, moderate, severe). Results: The sample included 82% student-athletes and 18% supervisors, mostly male (68%), aged 18 to 35 years. The average sleep duration was 6.2 ± 1.1 hours per night. The prevalence of sleep disorders reached 63%: mild disorders (38.67%), moderate (15.67%), severe (8.67%). Subjective dissatisfaction concerned 40% of participants. The main identified risk factors were screen use before bedtime (72%), caffeine consumption (64.7%), late training (53%), and competitive stress. Conclusion: This study reveals a high prevalence of sleep disorders among university athletes. Systematic screening during the fitness medical examination and education on sleep hygiene are necessary. These results highlight the urgency of developing prevention and management strategies adapted to the African context.