Obstructive sleep apnoea and obesity

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and obesity are two common conditions affecting the Australian population; obesity is the major risk factor for OSA.

The objectives of this article are to review the interactions between obesity and OSA, including the increased cardiovascular risk, and highlight the importance of using OSA diagnosis as a critical time to address obesity itself and other cardiovascular risk factors.

Snoring and symptoms of OSA frequently worsen during periods of rapid weight gain. Obesity and metabolic factors (eg hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, insulin resistance) are commonly present at the time of OSA diagnosis. Severe OSA is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment is safe and effective, reduces sleepiness, and improves mood and quality of life; however, the cardiovascular benefits of CPAP are uncertain. Weight loss leads to variable improvement in OSA, is most effective in milder OSA, and has a greater benefit on cardiovascular risk than CPAP.