Evaluation of Sleep Quality in Pediatric Population in a Portuguese Primary Care Setting

Sleep problems in children are common but often underrecognized by caregivers. This study evaluated sleep quality in children and compared it with parental perception. The Portuguese version of the Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire was applied in primary care setting to children aged 2 to 10 years between July and November 2021, with a cut-off value for sleep disturbance of 48. A total of 239 valid responses were obtained, 56% male, median age of 6 years. In our sample, 43% had positive score for sleep disturbance, while 67% had a sleep duration according to recommendations and only 12% of parents perceived a sleep problem. Sleep disturbances were more common in pre-schoolers and when caregivers perceived a problem. Given the potential impact of sleep problems, greater attention is required as parents will underrecognize them. Healthcare providers should regularly assess sleep quality, ideally using validated tools, in order to identify problems needing intervention.