Study: Sleep apnea most prevalent in individuals with BMI of 30 or higher – ET HealthWorld


Study: Sleep apnea most prevalent in individuals with BMI of 30 or higher

Ahmedabad: A study based in Ahmedabad on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) indicated that the issue was most prevalent in individuals who had body mass index (BMI) of 30kg/m2 or more. The study also mentioned that the problem was more prevalent in men compared to women.

The study by Avsar Vaishya, a student of Government Physiotherapy College and Spine Institute, along with Yagna Shukla and Anjali Bhise titled ‘Prevalence of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Among Obese Individuals in Ahmedabad — An Observational Study’ was recently published in International Journal of Health Sciences and Research.

Study: Sleep apnea most prevalent in individuals with BMI of 30 or higher

Findings of the study indicated that the prevalence among the obese individuals in the sample size of the study was 69%. The prevalence was found to be 5% higher in men and the condition was most prevalent in 50-59 years age group where it was found to be 85%.

“OSA is a condition where the pharyngeal airway gets narrowed partially or completely during sleep. It results in repeated episodes of airflow cessation, oxygen desaturation and sleep interruption. Obesity is considered to be the primary responsible factor for the condition. The excessive fat deposits increase the ‘collapsibility’ of the pharyngeal airway,” said a team member.

The researchers added that obesity is a modifiable factor and early detection and management is key to management of OSA. Dr Yagna Shukla, principal of the Spine Institute, said that several patients seek medical intervention even as the number of those who don’t reach medical settings is much higher.

“Those with snoring problems can have the condition. We recommend lifestyle modifications focusing on attaining healthier BMI. In several cases, changing the sleeping position – such as sleeping on side or stomach instead of back – can also help,” she said.





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