Insomnia symptoms and their association with academic performance among respiratory therapy students in Saudi Arabia and the United States

Despite the growing recognition of insomnia among students, research specifically targeting respiratory therapy (RT) students remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of insomnia symptoms and their association with academic performance among RT students in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the United States of America (USA). The Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) survey was electronically distributed to students via email in coordination with RT program directors. Data analysis included descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages), with insomnia prevalence reported as proportions with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). One-way ANOVA was employed to identify significant differences in ISI scores across categorical groups. A total of 403 responses were received from participants in both countries. The majority were from KSA (79.9%), and (20.1%) were from the USA. The prevalence of insomnia among RT students was 32% in KSA and 21% in the USA. Higher ISI scores were significantly associated with being female (p = 0.003), in the second academic year (p = 0.003), current smoking status (p < 0.001), single marital status (p < 0.001), and lower GPA (p < 0.001) in KSA. In the USA, elevated ISI scores were significantly associated only with current smoking status (p < 0.001). Insomnia was commonly reported among RT students in both KSA and the USA and was significantly associated with several demographic and academic variables, including GPA. These findings reflect correlational not causal relationships and suggest the need for targeted interventions to support healthy sleep habits and academic well-being among RT students.