Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Hypertension-A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Sleep Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disorders such as hypertension (HTN).
• The complex relationship between OSA and HTN is often inadequately managed, potentially impacting cardiovascular outcomes.
• Understanding the OSA-HTN axis is critical for clinical practice and public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the literature on the association between obstructive sleep apnea and hypertension.
• To identify key factors mediating the relationship between OSA and HTN.
• To emphasize the importance of managing the OSA-HTN axis for cardiovascular health.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search using expanded MeSH terms for sleep-disordered breathing and sleep apnea syndrome.
• Adherence to the PRISMA model for study selection.
• Inclusion of peer-reviewed articles published between January 2000 and December 2024.

Main Results:

• The review highlights the independent and interaction effects of OSA on cardiovascular health and outcomes.
• Key mediating factors in the OSA-HTN association were identified.
• Evidence supports the significant impact of OSA on hypertension prevalence and management.

Conclusions:

• Multimodal management, including continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and lifestyle modifications, is essential for treating OSA-related hypertension.
• Effective management of the OSA-HTN relationship is vital for improving patient cardiovascular outcomes.
• Addressing the OSA-HTN axis is a critical unmet need in cardiovascular care.