Community-based intervention for obstructive sleep apnea in the general population: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Sleep Medicine
• Cardiology

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent condition affecting general population health.
• Community-based interventions are crucial for managing chronic conditions like OSA.
• Early detection and management of OSA can mitigate associated health risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of a community-based intervention for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in the general population.
• To evaluate health outcomes, including quality of life and cardiometabolic risk factors.
• To determine participant engagement levels in the intervention program.

Main Methods:

• A 3-month randomized controlled trial was conducted in southern China.
• Participants were screened for high-risk OSA and diagnosed via home sleep testing.
• Eligible participants were randomized to an intervention or control group, with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) as a core component.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significant improvements in health-related quality of life (SF-36 domains) and sleep-related symptoms (e.g., Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale).
• A significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure was observed in the intervention group.
• No significant changes were noted in glycolipid metabolism or cardiac structural remodeling.

Conclusions:

• Community-based interventions can improve quality of life, sleep symptoms, and blood pressure in individuals with undiagnosed OSA.
• Low engagement remains a challenge for community-based OSA intervention programs.
• Further strategies are needed to enhance participant adherence and program effectiveness.