Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, and Perceptions of Medical Science Students on Sleep Paralysis in Guinea

Sleep paralysis (SP) is characterized by a temporary inability to move or speak while awake. Although SP is prevalent among students, it remains understudied in sub-Saharan Africa. Medical students may be particularly vulnerable. In 2025, a survey was conducted among 320 medical science students at three universities in Conakry, Guinea, using a semi-structured electronic questionnaire. Data collected included sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, practices, and cultural perceptions regarding SP. A total of 62.0% of students reported experiencing SP. The most common symptoms were inability to move (91%), inability to speak (83%), a sense of presence (60%), and intense fear (62%). Male students, as well as those with moderate knowledge and attitude scores, had lower odds of experiencing SP. Both biomedical and cultural-spiritual explanatory models were identified. SP is prevalent and causes significant distress among medical science students in Conakry. Enhanced information dissemination, improved curriculum coverage, increased psychosocial support, and further longitudinal research are warranted.