Background. Pediatricians play an important role in the screening, diagnosis and management of childhood obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This study used a questionnaire to explore the knowledge, self-confidence and general practices of childhood OSA among Thai pediatricians.

Methods. This was a descriptive cross-sectional survey study, using a newly developed questionnaire; including: 21 knowledge items, 4 self-confidence items, questions regarding OSA screening, number of OSA cases per month and OSA management.

Results. A total of 307, convenient pediatricians; from different types of hospitals across all regions of Thailand, participated in this study. The median, total knowledge score was 19 (range 14-21). Two-thirds of the respondents felt confident/extremely confident in their ability to identify and manage children with OSA. The average number of OSA cases reported by pediatricians was 5.9 cases per month. During a general medical check-up, 86.6% of the respondents did not routinely ask about OSA symptoms. Significant odds ratios (ORs) for the use of montelukast, as the first-line drug for OSA in young children, were observed in pediatric allergists and pulmonologists (adjusted OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.11-6.01 and adjusted OR 2.20, 95% CI 1.2-4.02) (P = 0.008), respectively, compared to general pediatricians and other sub-specialties.

Conclusions. Pediatricians had a high level of overall OSA knowledge, and good self-confidence in identifying and managing children with OSA. However, a low recognition rate and unawareness of OSA screening were observed.

Keywords: knowledge, obstructive sleep apnea, pediatricians, practice, self-confidence