Internet addiction among medical students in three universities (Omdurman Islamic University, University of Science and Technology and Ahfad University for Women). Omdurman Locality - Sudan 2016.

Abstract

Background: There has been explosive growth in the use of internet in the last decade. This resultsin serious problems in many areas. The aim is to study patterns and effects of internet addiction amongmedical students in three universities in Omdurman locality, Sudan 2016Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted at 3 medical colleges out of 5 in Omdurman. A standardquestionnaire based on Young’s internet addiction test was used to collect data from 272 medical students.Results: The prevalence of internet addiction was found to be 80.15% (95% CI: 75-85). Most studentsuse internet for chatting and academic purposes. There is no signifcant association between gender andinternet addiction (p=0.360), but there is association between duration of daily internet use and the level ofinternet addiction (p<0.001). Most students have their academic performance affected, and 74.7% (95% CI:69-80) feel depressed when not online. Most students prefer staying on internet than sitting with parents orfriends. The most observed side effects for prolonged use are “blurring of vision”55.9% (95% CI: 50-62)and headache 47.8% (95% CI: 42-54).Conclusion: Incidence of internet use is increasing. Most students have their health affected fromprolonged use of internet, and most of them have their academic, social life and sleep affected. There isa need for motivation of students to participate in social activities, limiting internet use in lecture theatre,limiting access to open Wi-Fi and for awareness raising sessions.

Impacts of Social Media on Academic Performance and Mental Health of Alzaiem Alazhari University Medical Students (Nov 2020 - June 2021)

“…Consequently, many universities restricted access to social media within their buildings [19] The use of social media has become a part of students' lives throughout the globe [20,21] Here in Sudan usage of social media has become one of the daily practices of most university students and almost all of those students have smartphones and spend their free time in it. The prevalence of internet addiction was found to be 80.15% (95% CI: 75-85) and an increase in the incidence of internet use [22].…”