Understanding adherence to continuous positive airway pressure in patients with obstructive sleep apnea post-stroke:...

Adherence to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) post-stroke is often problematic, despite potential benefits. This study aimed to evaluate CPAP adherence in patients with OSA post-stroke based on the Andersen behavioral model of health services utilization. A total of 227 eligible participants were recruited from a Chinese hospital. After baseline assessment, participants were followed for 6 months to determine short-term CPAP adherence. Those with good short-term adherence were followed for an additional 6 months to explore long-term adherence and influencing factors. Short-term CPAP adherence rate was 33%. Being married or living with a partner, having an associate degree or baccalaureate degree or higher, and stronger health beliefs independently predicted short-term CPAP adherence. Only 25% of participants from the adherent group showed good long-term adherence. The factor associated with long-term CPAP adherence was participants not using alcohol. Adherence to CPAP is suboptimal among patients having OSA post-stroke. Addressing unfavorable predisposing factors and modifying health beliefs are suggested.