ASSOCIATION OF SLEEP FACTORS AND DRIVING BEHAVIOURS AMONG GENERAL ADULT POPULATION IN MALAYSIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Dangerous driving behaviours have a significant impact on road safety amongst the general population. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of sleep issues, driving behaviours, and association between driving behaviours and road traffic accidents among the general adult population in Malaysia. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 by recruiting the general adult population in Malaysia. Responses were collected through an online questionnaire which included demographic factors, sleep issues and sleepiness, lifestyle behaviours, driving behaviours and involvement in road traffic accidents. A total of 425 adults responded to the survey. Among them, the prevalence of sleep issues ranged from 1.9% to 21.2%. More than half of the respondents reported engaging in risky driving behaviours, including exceeding the speed limit (72.2%), being distracted while driving (68.9%), and making improper lane changes (60.5%). Excessive daytime sleepiness was found to be significantly associated with risky driving behaviours. Only alcohol drinking was found to be associated with involvement in road traffic accidents (RTAs) (aOR 9.2, 95%CI 1.66, 51.08). Our study has provided valuable insights into the different sleep disorders, daytime sleepiness, and lifestyle factors that influence the prevalence of road traffic accidents in the adult population of Malaysia. A multifaceted approach is essential to reduce the incidence of road traffic accidents caused by sleepiness and lifestyle behaviours, specifically alcohol. Public awareness campaigns in multiple languages should be launched to educate drivers about the dangers of driving under these conditions, with this education also integrated into driving schools and the license renewal process.