Evaluation of knowledge level related to obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

Objective: Our aim in this study is to evaluate the knowledge level of outpatients about obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).

Subjects And Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study included 1651 patients and patient relatives who applied to Konya Training and Research Hospital outpatient clinics. Sociodemographic data form and OSAS knowledge level questionnaire were applied to participants. SPSS 21 package program was used for the statistical analysis of the data. It was accepted that p value was <0.05.

Results: The average knowledge score in the knowledge level questionnaire was 15.1 (3-33). 61% of the participants had never heard of OSAS before. Those who are married, those living in the city center and women have a higher level of knowledge. When age, education level and income level increased, the score of information also increased. Most of the participants' information source was the social media with 56.5% (n = 364) and least were health workers with 19.8% (n = 127). The knowledge level of people whose information sources were doctors, were significantly higher than other information sources such as nurses, friends, internet and television as. There was no significant difference between the other groups.

Conclusion: In our study, it was concluded that the level of knowledge about OSAS in the society was not sufficient and that the society had to be informed about this disease which has serious complications and awareness should be established.