Excessive daytime sleepiness and associated factors among commercial vehicle drivers in Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is a major public health and occupational safety concern among commercial vehicle drivers because it impairs driving performance and increases the risk of road traffic crashes, occupational injuries, and adverse health outcomes. However, evidence on its prevalence and associated factors in Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia, remains limited. Therefore, this study determined the prevalence of EDS and identified its associated factors among commercial vehicle drivers in the study area. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 402 commercial vehicle drivers who were selected using a systematic random sampling technique in study area between March and June 2019. Data were collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire and standardized sleep assessment tools. Bivariable logistic regression was used to screen candidate variables, and those with p < 0.25 were entered into a multivariable logistic regression model to identify independent predictors of excessive daytime sleepiness while controlling for confounders. Model fitness was assessed, and statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05; adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used to report associations. The study included 398 participants with a mean age of 32.1 years (SD ± 9.1), and most were aged 20–29 years, while nearly half (47%) had 0–4 years of driving experience. The prevalence of EDS was 21.7% (95% CI: 17.7–25.8%). In the multivariable analysis, 10–14 years of driving experience (AOR = 13.96; 95% CI: 1.18–15.1; p < 0.04), cigarette smoking (AOR = 2.90; 95% CI: 1.10–7.60; p < 0.03), alcohol consumption (AOR = 6.12; 95% CI: 2.32–7.82; p < 0.01), and middle monthly income (4,112–12,340 ETB) (AOR = 2.49; 95% CI: 1.40–6.06; p < 0.04) were significantly associated with higher odds of EDS, whereas having a diploma or higher education was protective (AOR = 0.38; 95% CI: 0.16–0.95; p < 0.03). Excessive daytime sleepiness is a significant road safety concern among commercial drivers in Jimma Zone, Southwest Ethiopia. Driving experience, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, income level, and educational attainment were identified as factors associated with EDS. Modifiable behavioral factors, particularly smoking and alcohol use, increased the likelihood of EDS, while higher educational attainment showed a protective effect. Transportation authorities and employers should strengthen driver training, integrate routine EDS screening and sleep health education into transport and licensing systems, promote smoking and alcohol cessation programs, and ensure adequate rest opportunities to improve driver alertness and road safety. Not applicable.