Continuous positive airway pressure and obstructive sleep apnea in an Hispanic population

We sought to explore the relationship between the diagnosis of hypertension and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in a Hispanic population, describe the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on blood pressure regulation, and assess the effect of CPAP on quality of life.

A retrospective, recall interview study.

Patients enrolled at the Home Oxygen Program of the San Juan V.A. Medical Center with the diagnosis of OSA and treatment with CPAP.

The Calgary Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index was administered to all patients after informed consent. Information regarding co-morbid conditions and fluctuations in blood pressure and anthropometric variables were obtained on a follow-up evaluation.

After excluding for the use of antihypertensive medications, weight, and age, a 10% decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP) from 100 mm Hg to 92 mm Hg was observed in an average of 40 months of therapy (p < 0.05). With the Calgary Quality of Life Index, 67% of the patients reported an extreme improvement in their quality of life. Compliance with CPAP therapy correlated with improved quality of life (r = 0.33, p < 0.015).

In this pilot study, there appears to be a correlation between our intervention and decline of blood pressure, independent of body weight, age, or medication usage. CPAP treatment is an effective modality in improving symptoms and quality of life.