Short summary

This study aims to investigate the sleep patterns of Danish children compared to the Danish Health Authority's recommended sleep for age and elucidate potential sleep disturbances and their management, including consumption of melatonin. Also to assess the extent to which information about sleep from national experts is effectively communicated to the parents of the children. In addition, we would like to compare sleep habits between East and West Denmark.

Rationale

Sleep is essential for the optimal development of children's physical and mental well-being. Insufficient sleep duration and quality can negatively affect a child, leading to learning difficulties and behavioral issues. Lack of sleep can cause various symptoms that may be misdiagnosed, resulting in incorrect treatment. Sleep pattern change throughout life depending on various factors, including biological and mental conditions. The Danish Health Authority have recently published new recommendations regarding adequate sleep for all age groups. There are no recent publications regarding children's sleep patterns in Denmark in general; how parents cope with disturbed sleep of their children or where the parents find information or recommendations regarding sleep problems in children. This study aims to investigate the sleep patterns in a group of Danish children and contribute to increased focus and guidance for parents from healthcare professionals, schools, or other stakeholders involved with children, with the goal of promoting physical and mental well-being and health among Danish children and their families.

Description of the cohort

Cross-sectional study including Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Lillebaelt Hospital, University Hospital of Southern Denmark, Kolding and Paediatric Department, Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital, Herlev.

Data and biological material

Questionnaire data

Collaborating researchers and departments

Paediatric Department, Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital,

• Nanette Mol Debes; MD, PH.D