Sleep Deficit as a Factor in Cognitive Fatigue Among International Students of the International Medical Faculty

Sleep is a crucial factor in maintaining cognitive health, influencing attention, memory, emotional stability, and decision-making abilities. In medical education, particularly among international students who face adaptation challenges and increased academic workload, chronic sleep deprivation becomes a frequent issue. This article examines the relationship between insufficient sleep and cognitive fatigue among medical students, emphasizing how disrupted sleep patterns impair concentration, memory, and decision-making. The aim of the present study is to analyze the psychological and academic consequences of chronic sleep deprivation among international students of the International Medical Faculty, as well as to raise awareness of this issue and develop practical strategies for improving sleep hygiene in the context of intensive medical education. The study was conducted during the 2025–2026 academic year (autumn semester) at the Department of Clinical Disciplines No. 3 of the International Medical Faculty of Osh State University. A total of 207 international students from the 1st to the 5th year, as well as faculty members, participated in the research. The materials and methods included Google-based student surveys, analysis of academic performance, and the application of cognitive tests, including the Stroop Test to assess concentration and attentional stability. To ensure a deeper analysis, qualitative methods were employed, such as semi-structured interviews with students and focus groups with faculty members. The findings indicate a significant negative impact of chronic sleep deprivation on the cognitive functions and academic outcomes of international students.