A preliminary survey on prevalence and knowledge about different aspects of somnambulism in Buner District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Purpose Present study was aimed to investigate the prevalence and knowledge about different aspects of somnambulism in general population of Buner District, KP, Pakistan, during December 2015–November 2016. Methods Data was collected through convenient sampling technique which was comprised of structured and detailed questionnaire. Collected data regarding different actions performed by sleepwalkers were adjusted through a weighted variable to generalize results. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate association between variables related to somnambulism. Their odds ratios (ORs) were reported with their corresponding 95% CIs. Results In total, 11,881 individuals were surveyed, of which 448 (4%) suffered with sleep disorder. Females 256/448 (57%) were more prevalent as compared to males 192/448 (43%). Prevalence of somnambulism among children was 38% whereas 94% sufferers reported no effect on their growth. Majority of respondents reported that main cause of sleepwalking is stress and tension. Somnambulism was taken normal and mostly amusing disorder by sufferers and their families. Conclusion Sleepwalking is not age specific and serious disorder. Sleepwalkers need special care during their episode due to unconsciousness.