Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome: underestimated and undertreated

Area of Science:

• Sleep Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is a recognized worldwide problem, affecting 2-4% of middle-aged men and 1-2% of women in Western countries.
• While strongly linked to obesity, OSAS also affects leaner individuals with specific craniofacial structures.
• The prevalence of OSAS is rising, mirroring the global obesity epidemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the increasing clinical importance and prevalence of OSAS.
• To discuss the common symptoms, associated health risks, and socio-economic impact of OSAS.
• To emphasize the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing epidemiological data on OSAS prevalence.
• Analysis of common clinical presentations and associated comorbidities.
• Evaluation of treatment outcomes for CPAP therapy.

Main Results:

• A significant proportion of OSAS cases remain undiagnosed despite its widespread occurrence.
• Excessive daytime sleepiness and loud snoring are primary symptoms, impacting daily functioning and imposing a socio-economic burden.
• Hypertension is a key independent comorbidity associated with OSAS.

Conclusions:

• OSAS is a prevalent and increasingly recognized condition with significant public health implications.
• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the recommended treatment, offering high effectiveness and cost-efficiency.
• Raising awareness and improving diagnostic rates are essential for managing OSAS globally.