Impact of Bedtime Smartphone Usage on Sleep Quality Among Young Adults in Perak, Malaysia

Objectives: The National Sleep Foundation recommends 8–10 h of sleep per night for adolescents and young adults to maximize overall well-being. However, many young adults fail to achieve this due to lifestyle factors, including the pervasive use of smartphones. This study aimed to assess the association between smartphone usage before bedtime and sleep quality among young adults in Ipoh. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved young adults aged 18–25 years residing in Ipoh. Using convenience sampling, 394 young adults were recruited. With their consent, respondents answered questions regarding their sociodemographic profile, sleep quality, and smartphone-related risk factors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis, and Chi-square tests, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: Of the respondents, 36.55% were male, and 63.45% were female. A total of 348 (88.32%) respondents were students, 40 (10.2%) were employees, and 6 (1.5%) were housewives. Most respondents (338 [85.8%]) had poor sleep quality, indicated by a Global Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score of ≥5, with a median Global PSQI score of 8.00 (5.00-10.00). Global PSQI scores differed significantly among employment-status groups (p=0.023), with post hoc analysis showing a significant difference between employees and students (adjusted p=0.038). Smartphone use in bed after the lights were turned off was significantly associated with sleep quality (p<0.001). Conclusion: A high proportion of young adults had poor sleep quality, with differences in Global PSQI scores among employment-status groups. Smartphone use in bed after the lights were turned off was significantly associated with sleep quality, highlighting the importance of promoting healthier nighttime smartphone habits.