Nomophobia: a challenge among healthcare professionals in Africa

Objectives: This study delves into implementing Global Provider’s phone-lessness phobia (Global 3-P Study) within the healthcare sector in Africa through a multinational, cross-sectional, web-based survey from April 1st to 30 June 2023. Methods: Utilizing a modified Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q), the research explores four dimensions of nomophobia: the inability to communicate, loss of connectedness, difficulty accessing information, and sacrificing convenience. The Global Remote Research Scholars Program (GRRSP) conducted the study, employing a ‘snowball technique’ for survey dissemination. Results: A total of 1636 responses were collected from healthcare professionals in Africa, predominantly aged 26–45, with a majority identifying as Black-African (86.5%) and residing mainly in Kenya (61.6%). The survey revealed a higher prevalence of Android smartphone users (71.4%) than Apple iOS (25.6%). Participants reported spending substantial time on personal (3.1–5 hours) and work-related (up to 3 hours) smartphone activities. A significant portion of respondents felt uncomfortable (74.3%), annoyed (72.0%), and nervous (61.4%) at the prospect of not having constant smartphone access to information. Concerns about disruptions to smartphone connections, such as running out of battery or data, were prevalent among participants. Analysis of nomophobia levels revealed that 46.9% experienced moderate Nomophobia Level I and 41.1% reported severe levels, while Nomophobia Level II was reported by 51.8% with moderate levels and 37.2% with severe levels. Comparative analysis based on gender and age groups showed statistically significant differences. Males exhibited lower severity levels of nomophobia compared to females, and the 36–45 age group reported the highest prevalence of severe nomophobia. Conclusion: This study highlights the significant impact of nomophobia among healthcare professionals in Africa, indicating a need for interventions to mitigate its effects and promote healthy smartphone habits in this critical sector.