Obstructive sleep apnea and comorbidities: a dangerous liaison

Area of Science:

• Sleep Medicine
• Cardiology
• Pulmonology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent condition often linked to increased cardiovascular risk.
• Emerging research highlights the significant role of comorbidities in OSA patients, worsening prognosis.
• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy may offer protective benefits, particularly in patients with co-existing conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent studies on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and its associated comorbidities.
• To focus on cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, asthma, COPD, and cancer.
• To emphasize the importance of phenotypic characterization for individualized OSA patient care.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of recent scientific literature.
• Focused analysis on studies examining OSA in relation to major comorbidities.
• Synthesis of evidence regarding the impact of comorbidities on OSA prognosis and treatment.

Main Results:

• A high burden of comorbidities significantly worsens the prognosis for OSA patients.
• CPAP therapy shows potential protective effects, especially in OSA patients with comorbidities.
• Phenotypic characterization, including comorbidities, is essential for tailoring OSA treatment.

Conclusions:

• Individualized care for OSA patients requires comprehensive assessment of comorbidities.
• Clinicians should evaluate the overall risk profile of OSA patients, particularly those with poor CPAP adherence and no daytime sleepiness.
• Optimal management involves treating both OSA and its associated comorbidities to improve patient prognosis.