A Survey of the Prevalence and Anthropometric Correlates of the Risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea in Abuja, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND:Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is asignificant public health challenge, with increasing prevalence and mortality. A significant proportion of the burden of this disorder occurs in middle- and low-income countries. Unfortunately, the rising number of individuals with a new OSA diagnosis and its consequences are frequently underestimated. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and the correlates of OSA in the community setting. METHODS AND MATERIAL:The study was a cross-sectional community-based survey. A standardized self-administered Berlin questionnaire was administered to all the study participants. The questionnaire has three categories that assess snoring, daytime sleepiness, and OSA. The international physical activity questionnaire and Sheldon Cohen perceived stress was applied to assess physical activity and psychosocial stress levels. The subject's anthropometric and other clinical parameters were measured using the appropriate instrument for measurements. The data obtained were analyzed with SPSS version 21 software. RESULTS:Four hundred thirty-six (436) participants returned the completed questionnaire, out of which, 234 (53.7%) of the study population were men. The overall prevalence of the risk for OSA was 30% (36% in men vs. 24% in women). The risk of developing OSA was 1.8 times more in men. Hypertension was the most frequently reported comorbidity among the population at risk for developing OSA. CONCLUSION:Obstructive sleep apnoea is a common but frequently neglected medical condition. The proportion of individuals affected may be more than is currently suggested. Routine screening for OSA and initiation of early treatment is necessary to mitigate the attendant consequences.