Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome Proliferates, Impacting Health and Productivity

Strategic Insights -

Research conducted at the University of Sousse has shed light on the growing public health concern of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). This chronic disorder affects physical and mental health, leading to symptoms such as daytime sleepiness and fatigue, which negatively impact vigilance, productivity, and quality of life. A cross-sectional study involving 93 patients diagnosed with OSAHS found that severe OSAHS was associated with increased body mass index (BMI), depression, and anxiety scores. Furthermore, patients with severe OSAHS experienced a more pronounced alteration in quality of life.

Key Takeaways:

  • Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a growing public health concern, affecting approximately 37.6% of patients in the study.
  • Severe OSAHS was identified in 35 patients, with male sex and tobacco smoking associated with increased severity of the disorder.
  • Patients with severe OSAHS had a higher body mass index (BMI) and a more pronounced alteration in quality of life compared to those with mild OSAHS.
  • Depression and anxiety scores were significantly associated with the severity of OSAHS.
  • The study concluded that promoting screening and access to care is crucial at both individual and organizational levels to mitigate the impact of OSAHS on health and productivity.

Statistics:

  • The study involved 93 active patients diagnosed with OSAHS.
  • Severe OSAHS was identified in 35 patients (37.6%).
  • Male sex was associated with increased severity of OSAHS (p = 0.002).
  • Tobacco smoking was associated with increased severity of OSAHS (p = 0.005).
  • Patients with severe OSAHS had a higher body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.043).
  • Depression and anxiety scores were significantly associated with the severity of OSAHS (p = 0.018 and p = 0.025, respectively).

Sources:

  • Imene Kacem, et al. (2025). Impact of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome severity on quality of life, anxiety disorders, and productivity in an active population. Libyan Journal of Medicine, 20(1), 2569152.
  • Taylor & Francis Ltd (Publisher).