Association between sleep-related breathing disorder and depression in young adults and aged population - A survey

Abstract

The aim of the study was to create awareness about depression caused by improper sleep due to breathing disorder. It also aims in creating awareness about the necessity of treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep related breathing disorders refers to abnormal respiration during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea refers to recurrent episodes of partial or complete closure of the upper airway resulting in disturbed breathing while sleeping. It reduces the quality of life. Untreated OSA leads to cardiovascular diseases including coronary artery disease, stroke and atrial fibrillation. It is a survey based study conducted in an online setting, done among the Chennai population. The sample size is 100 people. Sampling method used is simple random sampling. Randomisation was done to minimise bias. Internal validity was a pre tested questionnaire. External validity was Homogenisation, replication of experiment and cross verification with existing studies. Data analysis was done in SPSS software. Statistical test used was the chi-square test. Dependent variables were demographics such as age, gender. Independent variables were sleep related breathing problems and depression. From this online based survey, it was found that 97% people were aware of OSA and 99% of people were aware that untreated OSA could lead to many complications. This survey aims in creating awareness among people about sleep related breathing disorder and depression in young adults and aged population.