The Burden of Jetlag among Nigerians Studying in Indian and Malaysian Universities

Abstract

Background: There are a large number of Nigerians studying and aspiring to study in India and Malaysia. Due to the great time-zone differences between Nigeria and these countries, there exists the possibility of experiencing adjustment problems. Aim of the study: To determine the burden of jetlag phenomenon and the distribution of its symptoms among Nigerians studying in these countries. Methodology: Online surveys using Google forms were disseminated to Nigerians studying in Indian and Malaysian Universities and the data were analyzed. Results: A hundred and three (103) eligible persons responded to the survey, most of whom were males (86.4%) and married (58.3%). Many of them did not know what jetlag was (52.4%). Most, also reported falling asleep less easily on their first night of arrival (78.6%), of whom 44.4% continued to experience same for months and even up to a year. Many also reported having more wakeful episodes during the night (41.7%); later waking time (56.3%); feeling less alert 30 minutes after waking from sleep (58.3%) and generally feeling more tired since arrival (57.3%), with many of them haven experienced same for prolonged durations. A higher proportion of those studying in Malaysia, reported experiencing these symptoms, compared to those studying in India. As an adjustment/coping technique, most of them had attempted maintaining daytime alertness (72.8%) and maintaining a dark room at night (55.3%), of whom 21.0% and 31.6% respectively found these measures very effective, while 57.3% and 50.8% respectively found them slightly effective. Conclusions: This study reveals the great enormity of this problem. It is recommended that prospective students be enlightened on the possibility of experiencing this problem and adjustment techniques even before departure from Nigeria. School clinics in these countries should also include jetlag management in their treatment programs to help affected international students.