Relationship Between Peripheral Arterial Diseases and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Sleep Medicine
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to cardiovascular outcomes in coronary artery disease (CAD).
• The association between OSA and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) requires further investigation.
• Prompt OSA diagnosis and treatment can mitigate cardiovascular comorbidities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the relationship between OSA and PAD.
• To determine the statistical association between OSA and PAD prevalence.
• To evaluate OSA's impact on cardiovascular comorbidities in PAD patients.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of articles from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library (January 2000 - December 2020).
• Inclusion of seven prospective cohort studies with 61,284 patients.
• Assessment of OSA severity using the apnea-hypopnea index and daytime sleepiness via the Epworth Sleepiness Scale.

Main Results:

• A higher prevalence of OSA was observed in patients diagnosed with PAD.
• No significant association was found between OSA severity, poor ankle-brachial index, and increased daytime sleepiness.
• The overall prevalence of OSA increases in patients with PAD.

Conclusions:

• The prevalence of OSA is elevated in patients with PAD.
• Further prospective research and clinical trials are necessary to establish a definitive link between OSA and PAD.
• Establishing a strong association can inform patient management strategies and improve outcomes.