Evaluation of the knowledge level and attitude of physicians towards obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

Aim: The knowledge level and approach of physicians in Turkey to obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is unknown. The aim of this study is to evaluate the knowledge level and attitudes of physicians from various branches to OSAS. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional analytical study, Obstructive Sleep Apnea Knowledge and Attitude (OSAKA) questionnaire was performed in order to measure knowledge levels and attitudes to OSAS. SPSS 22 package program was used for statistical analysis of data, p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: Four hundred forty-four physicians (16 from fundamental sciences, 295 from internal branches, 99 from surgical branches and 34 general practitioners) participated in the study. The mean knowledge score was 11.41 +/- 3.05 (0-18). The knowledge score of physicians aged 30 years and younger was significantly higher than those aged 31 years and older (p <0.001). There was a negative correlation between knowledge score and age of doctors (rs=-0.214, p <0.001). The level of knowledge of pulmonologists and ENT specialists was higher compared to physicians of other branches (p <0.05). No significant difference was detected between the knowledge scores of academicians and non-academicians (p> 0.05). There was no correlation between knowledge scores and academic degrees (rs=-0.072, p = 0.188). It was observed that the knowledge level of physicians whose professional experience was 4 years or less was higher than that of those whose professional experience was 5 years or more (p = 0.001). A negative correlation was also detected between knowledge scores and professional experience (rs=-0.193, p <0.001). Discussion: It was determined that physicians' level of knowledge about OSAS was not sufficient and they felt insufficient about the management of OSAS patients. It would be appropriate to raise awareness of OSAS among practicing physicians within the scope of vocational training as well as in medical faculties and institutions providing specialist training.