Objective: The objective of this cross-sectional study is to assess the prevalence and types of sleep disturbances among Parkinson’s disease patients receiving care at a tertiary neurological center in Nepal.

Background: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder impacting movement, but also frequently causing non-motor symptoms like sleep disturbances. While prevalent worldwide, research on PD and sleep in under-resourced settings is scarce. This is the first study which aimed to assess the prevalence and characteristics of sleep disturbances in PD patients of Nepal.

Method: A cross-sectional study recruited PD patients diagnosed by a neurologist according to established criteria. Participants completed validated questionnaires assessing sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, PSQI), Sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale, ESS). Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for analysis.

Results: A total of 57 PD patients participated, 59 % of female with a mean age of 65.7 years. The PSQI score (>=9), indicating sleep quality, was 61.4% [majority was male 17 (70.83%)], suggesting poor sleep in the majority. Excessive daytime sleepiness, measured by the ESS (>=7), was present in 21 (37.80%) of participants.

Conclusion: This study found a high prevalence of sleep disturbances in Nepalese PD patients, including poor sleep quality, daytime sleepiness. These findings highlight the need for increased awareness and comprehensive management of sleep problems in PD patients of Nepal, potentially improving their overall well-being and quality of life.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/a-cross-sectional-study-of-sleep-disturbances-in-parkinsons-disease-patients-at-a-tertiary-neurological-center-in-nepal/