Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Research Articles

0522 CPAP Improves Cognition in Brain-Healthy Males: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Trial

Abstract Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with cognitive impairments. However, in many adequately powered randomized trials, there is weak or no evidence for the causal effect of treating OSA on cognition. A common characteristic of these randomized trials is heterogeneous participants. We hypothesize that there is a subset whose cognition could be improved by OSA treatment using CPAP. Methods This is a secondary analysis of the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES), a randomized, double-blind, two-arm, sham-controlled, multicenter trial. The primary analysis had adult participants with baseline AHI ≥10/hour. We restricted to those with both baseline polysomnogram and outcome available: n=787. The outcome is 6-month Sustained Working Memory Overall index at mid-day, which was not significantly different in the primary analysis. The original exposure is randomized active- or sham-CPAP. However, the adherence rate (≥4 hours for >70% nights in 1-month) is higher for active than sham (chi2 p< 0.001). Therefore, we re-defined a non-randomized exposure as both under active-CPAP and being adherent (n=165) vs. all others (n=622). To account for confounding, covariates were clustered into 17 groups, plus age, sex, education, and baseline cognition. Individual treatment effect (ITE) was estimated using matching, which finds a matched group for each individual with similar covariates but opposite exposure. The ITE is the difference between two potential outcomes: the counterfactual outcome from the mean outcome of the matched group, and the factual outcome as observed. Results The overall ITE was non-significant compared to 0 (t-test p=0.4). A subset of 285 (Group 1) could have improved cognition if under active-CPAP and adherent (average ITE 0.68, p< 0.001); another subset of 328 (Group 2) could have worsened cognition (average ITE -0.64, p< 0.001). Group 1 is characterized by more males, higher baseline cognitive scores, lower EEG-derived brain age index, and slightly more depression; the opposite for Group 2. Conclusion Assuming the ITE is unbiased, relatively brain-healthy males with OSA can improve their cognition once OSA is treated by CPAP. Support (if any) MBW was supported by NIH (R01NS102190, R01NS102574, R01NS107291, RF1AG064312). RT received support from RF1AG064312. AVZ received the Parker B. Francis Fellowship award. JJL was supported by NIH UL1TR002541.

0480 Psychoactive Substance Use and Sleep Characteristics Among Individuals with Untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Abstract Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by recurrent airway obstruction causing intermittent hypoxia, arousal from sleep, and autonomic instability, and is associated with a variety of long-term health sequala. The fragmented sleep resulting from these respiratory events leads to disruption in normal sleep architecture and progression to deeper stages of sleep, a potential mediator for some of the functional and neurocognitive impairments seen in this population. Similarly, psychoactive substance use (i.e., nicotine, alcohol, and caffeine) impacts sleep architecture in healthy individuals, but their effects in those with OSA have not been well described. We aimed to describe the association between psychoactive substance use and sleep characteristics and daytime symptoms in individuals with untreated OSA. Methods We performed a secondary, cross-sectional analysis of The Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES). Exposures included current smoking, alcohol, and caffeine use in individuals with untreated OSA. Outcome domains included subjective and objective sleep characteristics, daytime symptoms, and co-morbid conditions. Linear or logistic regression assessed the association between substance use and each domain (e.g., self-reported sleep duration, total polysomnographic sleep time, sleepiness, and anxiety). Results Of the 919 individuals with untreated OSA, 116 (12.6%) were current cigarette smokers, 585 (63.7%) were moderate or heavy alcohol users, and 769 (83.7%) were moderate or heavy caffeine users. Current smokers exhibited lower sleep duration (0.3 hours) and longer sleep latency (5 minutes) compared with non-smokers (all p-values< 0.05). REM sleep increased in those with moderate and heavy alcohol use (2.5 and 5% of total sleep time respectively), and moderate caffeine use (2%, all p-values < 0.05)). The combined smoker plus caffeine group exhibited shorter sleep duration (0.4 hours) and higher risk for chronic pain [Odds Ratio (95%CI) = 4.83 (1.57, 14.9). . Conclusion Both psychoactive substances and untreated OSA impact normal sleep architecture, their cumulative effect may have clinical implications in this subgroup. Stimulating or sedating substances may be used in OSA patients to mitigate daytime and nighttime symptoms respectively. Further investigation into the effects substances have on this population may present opportunities to better understand disease mechanisms and increase the effectiveness of treatment in OSA Support (if any)

Nicotine, alcohol, and caffeine use among individuals with untreated obstructive sleep apnea.

Psychoactive substance use (i.e., nicotine, alcohol, and caffeine) has substantial effects on sleep architecture in healthy individuals, but their effects in those with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have not been well described. We aimed to describe the association between psychoactive substance use and sleep characteristics and daytime symptoms in individuals with untreated OSA. We performed a secondary, cross-sectional analysis of The Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES). Exposures included current smoking, alcohol and caffeine use in individuals with untreated OSA. Outcome domains included subjective and objective sleep characteristics, daytime symptoms, and comorbid conditions. Linear or logistic regression assessed the association between substance use and each domain (e.g., self-reported sleep duration, total polysomnographic sleep time, sleepiness, and anxiety). Of the 919 individuals with untreated OSA, 116 (12.6%) were current cigarette smokers, 585 (63.7%) were moderate or heavy alcohol users, and 769 (83.7%) were moderate or heavy caffeine users. Participants were on average 52.2±11.9years old, 65.2% were male with a median BMI of 30.6 (IQR: 27.2, 35.9, kg/m2). Current smokers exhibited lower sleep duration (0.3h), longer sleep latency (5min) compared with non-smokers (all p-values < 0.05). People with heavy or moderate alcohol use exhibited more REM sleep (2.5 and 5% of total sleep time respectively), as did those with moderate caffeine use (2%, p-values < 0.05). The combined smoker plus caffeine group exhibited shorter sleep duration (0.4h, p-value < 0.05) and higher risk for chronic pain [Odds Ratio (95%CI) = 4.83 (1.57, 14.9) compared with non-users. Psychoactive substance use is associated with sleep characteristics and clinically relevant correlates in people with untreated OSA. Further investigation into the effects that various substances have on this population may present opportunities to understand disease mechanisms more fullyand increase the effectiveness of treatment in OSA.

Diet as adjunctive therapy for sleep apnea risk: not only how much but also what to eat.

Diet as adjunctive therapy for sleep apnea risk: not only how much but also what to eat.

441 Influence Of Chronotype On CPAP Adherence

Abstract Introduction Continuous positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP) is an efficacious treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, despite interventions targeting established determinants of CPAP use, adherence to CPAP remains poor. An Individual’s chronotype can influence behavior including adherence to dietary changes and alcohol abstinence. We hypothesized that chronotype will be associated with CPAP adherence and aimed to identify the mechanisms of this association. Methods Secondary data analysis of the active CPAP arm (n=469) from the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study, a multicenter randomized controlled trial of CPAP therapy in a sleep clinic population was performed. The Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) was used to identify three chronotype categories: Evening (MEQ score: 16–41), Neither (42–58) and Morning (59–86) types. CPAP adherence over 6-months (hours/night) was objectively measured using smart-card downloads. Linear mixed modelling evaluated the association between the chronotype and CPAP adherence, adjusting for confounders (e.g., age). Mechanisms of this association were examined by change in beta estimates for the chronotype with addition of a potential mediator (e.g., sleep duration). Results There were 206(44%), 38(8%) and 219(47%) Morning, Evening and Neither chronotype patients respectively. Evening types were youngest (48.0±13.4 vs. 50.3±11.3 and 56.3±11.4 years, p&amp;lt;0.001) with highest body mass index (BMI, 34.9±10.5 vs. 31.2±10.5 and 32.7±10.5 kg/m2, p=0.006) and longest sleep on weekends (7.9±2.0 vs. 7.3±1.3 and 7.6±1.5 hours, p=0.017) compared to Morning and Neither types. A higher proportion of Evening types also reported symptoms of insomnia and fatigue (p-values 0.017 and 0.048 respectively). CPAP adherence, however, did not differ between Evening and Neither types (p=0.276). Compared to the Neither types, Morning types exhibited significantly higher CPAP adherence (β= 40mins/night, p=0.001) with a slight decrease after adjusting for age, sex, race, marital status, education, and OSA severity (β= 33mins/night, p=0.012). Sleep duration, insomnia, BMI and fatigue mediated a minimal proportion of this effect (0.7–3.7%). Conclusion In this cohort of sleep clinic patients, the Morning chronotype was associated with better CPAP adherence. Only a small proportion of this association was mediated by observed clinical differences between the chronotypes. Understanding the influence of chronotype on CPAP use may provide novel insight for improving OSA therapy effectiveness. Support (if any):

0595 Obstructive Sleep Apnea Characteristics in Younger Versus Older Women

Abstract Introduction There are few large studies of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) comparing the clinical and polysomnographic characteristics between men and women, and between younger and older women. Methods The current study involves retrospective analyses of data from the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES), a prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial in persons with OSA. The mean age of the 1105 participants was 51.6 ± 12 years (range 18-83 years). The participants included 723 men (65.4%) and 382 women (34.6%). Of all women, 25% were &amp;lt;=45 years of age (likely pre-menopausal) and 50% were above &amp;gt;=53 years of age (likely post-menopausal). We used these 2 groups to define younger women and older women, respectively. Results The overall mean body mass index (BMI) and apnea hypopnea index (AHI) were 32.2 ± 7.1 Kg/m2 and 40.1 ± 25.2 (range 6-156/hour), respectively. Women had a higher BMI and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) than men but a lower AHI and lower arousal index (AI). The Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD) score was also significantly higher in women. Younger men and women had no other PSG differences including total sleep time (TST), Sleep Efficiency (SE), Sleep Onset Latency (SOL). Older women had lower AHI, higher TST and higher SE than older men. Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) scores were lower in women than in men in all age groups (suggestive of eveningness). Compared to the older women, younger women had higher BMI, HAMD score and ESS, but lower MEQ score. On PSG, younger women had higher TST and SE but similar SOL, AHI and AI. Conclusion In this cohort with OSA, the prevalence of sleepiness and depression is higher in women than in men despite a lower AHI and lower AI. Sleepiness and depression are more common in younger compared to older women with OSA despite similar AHI and AI and a higher SE. Women with OSA demonstrate more ‘eveningness’ compared to men with OSA, as do younger women compared to older women. Support Contract 5UO1-HL-068060 from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute

The effect of CPAP on HRQOL as measured by the Quality of Well-Being Self Administered Questionaire (QWB-SA).

To examine the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) as measured by the Quality of Well Being Self-Administered questionnaire (QWB-SA). Participants from The Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES); a 6-month multicenter randomized, double-blinded intention to treat study, were included in this analysis. The participants with an apnea-hypopnea index >10 events/hour initially randomized to CPAP or Sham group were asked to complete QWB-SA at baseline, 2, 4, and 6-month visits. There were no group differences among either the CPAP or Sham groups. "Mean age was 52±12 [SD] years, AHI 40±25 events/hr, BMI 32±7.1 kg/m2, and Epworth Sleepiness Score (ESS) 10±4 of 24 points." QWB-SA scores were available at baseline, and 2, 4 & 6 months after treatment in CPAP (n 558) and Sham CPAP (n 547) groups. There were no significant differences in QWB scores among mild, moderate or severe OSA participants at baseline. Modest improvement in QWB scores was noted at 2, 4 and 6- months among both Sham and CPAP groups (P <0.05). However, no differences were observed between Sham CPAP and CPAP at any time point. Comparison of the QWB-SA data from the current study with published data in populations with chronic illnesses demonstrated that the impact of OSA is no different than the effect of AIDS and arthritis. Although the QoL measured by the QWB-SA was impaired in OSA it did not have direct proportionality to OSA severity.ClinicalTrials.gov. Identifier: NCT00051363.

Prevalence and correlates of periodic limb movements in OSA and the effect of CPAP therapy.

We sought to assess the prevalence, correlates, and consequences of periodic limb movements of sleep (PLMS) in persons with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and the effect (worsening or improvement) of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy on PLMS in a large prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial. We performed retrospective analyses of data from the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study, a prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial. A total of 1,105 persons with OSA enrolled in this study underwent a polysomnographic investigation at baseline, another one for CPAP titration, and another study 6 months after randomization to either active CPAP or sham CPAP. Of all participants, 19.7% had PLM index (PLMI) ≥10/hour, 14.8% had PLMI ≥15/hour, 12.1% had PLMI ≥20/hour, 9.3% had PLMI ≥25/hour, and 7.5% had PLMI ≥30/hour. The odds of having a PLMI ≥10 were higher in older participants (odds ratio [OR] 1.03, p < 0.001), men (OR 1.63. p = 0.007), those using antidepressants (OR 1.48. p = 0.048), and those with higher caffeine use (OR 1.01, p = 0.04). After controlling for OSA and depression, PLMS were associated with increased sleep latency, reduced sleep efficiency, and reduced total sleep time. No significant relationships were noted between PLMS frequency and subjective sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale score) or objective sleepiness (Maintenance of Wakefulness Test). There was no differential effect of CPAP in comparison to sham CPAP on PLMS after 6 months of therapy. PLMS are common in patients with OSA and are associated with a significant reduction in sleep quality over and above that conferred by OSA. Treatment with CPAP does not affect the severity of PLMS.

Effects of continuous positive airway pressure on blood pressure in obstructive sleep apnea patients: The Apnea Positive Pressure Long‐term Efficacy Study (APPLES)

Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with hypertension, and short-term studies have demonstrated a modest reduction in blood pressure with continuous positive airway pressure therapy. We evaluated the effects of continuous positive airway pressure versus sham continuous positive airway pressure on blood pressure in 1,101 participants with obstructive sleep apnea from the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study, a randomized, sham-controlled double-blinded study designed to assess the impact of continuous positive airway pressure on neurocognition. Participants with apnea-hypopnea index ≥10 were randomly assigned to continuous positive airway pressure or sham continuous positive airway pressure. Blood pressures measured in the morning and evening at baseline, 2months and 6months were analysed post hoc using a mixed-model repeated-measures analysis of variance. The largest magnitude reduction was approximately 2.4mmHg in morning systolic pressure that occurred at 2months in the continuous positive airway pressure arm as compared with an approximate 0.5mmHg reduction in the sham group (continuous positive airway pressure effect -1.9mmHg, p=.008). At 6months, the difference between groups was diminished and no longer statistically significant (continuous positive airway pressure effect -0.9mmHg, p=.12). Sensitivity analysis with use of multiple imputation approaches to account for missing data did not change the results. Treatment with continuous positive airway pressure for obstructive sleep apnea reduces morning but not evening blood pressure in a population with well-controlled blood pressure. The effect was greater after 2 than after 6months of treatment.

Clinical and Polysomnographic Correlates of Subjective Sleepiness in Mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

The decision to treat mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) often hinges on the presence of subjective daytime sleepiness. This study was done to identify clinical and polysomnographic features which correlate with subjective sleepiness in mild OSA. Utilizing data from the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study, 199 participants with mild OSA were identified. Participants were grouped as "sleepy" or "non-sleepy" based on their responses to a question regarding excessive daytime sleepiness, and Epworth Sleepiness Scores. We compared demographic, clinical and baseline polysomnographic data between the groups. The prevalence of subjective sleepiness was 74.4%. The sleepy group was younger (46.1 ± 12.6 vs. 53.3 ± 13.1 years, p=0.001), reported lower quality of life (4.5 ± 0.69 vs. 4.9 ± 0.61, p=0.0002), had higher depression scores (5.4 ± 4.7 vs. 3.1 ± 3.5, p=0.003) and reported more naps per week (2.6 ± 2.9 vs. 1.3 ± 1.9, p=0.01). Total sleep time and sleep efficiency were notably higher in the sleepy (254.2 ± 106 vs. 220.4 ± 114 min, p=0.08) and (80.2 ± 12.6 vs. 75.7 ± 14.9 %, p=0.06), approaching statistical significance. The non-sleepy group had slightly higher apnea hypopnea index (AHI: 12.2 ± 1.5 vs. 11.2 ± 2.4 events/hour, p=0.01) and worse desaturation indices. Subjective sleepiness in mild OSA is associated with younger age, worsened mood and quality of life. This study suggests that evidence of increased sleep drive on polysomnography may correlate with subjective sleepiness in mild OSA.

Associations Between Sleep Quality, Sleep Architecture and Sleep Disordered Breathing and Memory After Continuous Positive Airway Pressure in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea in the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES).

ObjectiveThe role of sleep architecture in consolidation of memory has not been extensively investigated. In this study, the association of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and sleep architecture and quality, and sleep disordered breathing on changes in memory are explored during the course of a 6 month clinical trial of CPAP or sham CPAP (APPLES).Methods848 participants had polysomnographic and memory assessments (Buschke Selective Reminding Test [Buschke] and Digit Symbol Substitution Test [DSST]) at baseline, CPAP/Sham CPAP titration, and the 2 and 6 month time points. Half were assigned to the CPAP and Sham CPAP groups respectively. Changes in performance on the Buschke and the DSST were analyzed over the course of the study between CPAP and Sham CPAP as well as in relationship to changes in sleep architecture, sleep quality and sleep disordered breathing (SDB).ResultsSleep architecture, sleep quality and SDB improved in the CPAP group at 6 months; performance on the Buschke and DSST improved equally in both CPAP and Sham CPAP groups. There also were no significant correlations between changes in the amount or percentage of sleep stages between baseline and the 6 months, and corresponding changes in either the Buschke or the DSST. However, when stratified by the upper quartile and lower 3 quartiles, greater changes in the Buschke occurred over 6 months in the top quartile of total sleep time (5.7±7.3 vs. 4.0±6.8, p≤0.01) and amount of N3 sleep (55.9±7.7 vs. 53.6±8.9 min, p≤0.01). Those with more %N3 at 6 months scored better on the Buschke as well (55.9±7.8 vs. 53.6±8.9, p≤0.01). Borderline improvement in the DSST over 6 months was observed in the top quartiles of amount of N3 and %N3. Those in the top quartile of the amount of REM and %REM also showed greater improvement in the Buschke after 6 months. No differences were observed for the AHI, but those in the top quartile of oxygen desaturation had worse scores on the Buschke at 6 months. CPAP/Sham CPAP adherence did not impact 6 month Buschke or DSST performance.ConclusionsCPAP improved long-term sleep duration, quality and architecture, but did not memory. However, large changes in REM and N3 sleep as well as moderate amounts of nocturnal hypoxemia are associated with changes in assessments of memory.

Adherence to continuous positive airway pressure improves attention/psychomotor function and sleepiness: a bias-reduction method with further assessment of APPLES

Objective/backgroundVariable adherence to prescribed therapies for sleep disorders is commonplace. This study was designed to integrate three available statistical technologies (instrumental variables, residual inclusion, and shrinkage) to allow sleep investigators to employ data on variable adherence in the estimation of the causal effect of treatment as received on clinical outcomes. Patients/methodsUsing data from the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES), regression adjustment for observed and unobserved confounders was applied to two primary neurocognitive outcomes, plus two measures of sleepiness. We demonstrate how to obtain estimates of reduced uncertainty for the causal effect of treatment as received for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) within clinical subpopulations (defined by baseline disease severity) of sleep apnea patients. Results and conclusionsFollowing six months of treatment, statistically significant improvements caused by device adherence were detected for subjective sleepiness in mild, moderate, and severe disease, objective sleepiness in severe disease, and attention and psychomotor function in moderate disease. Some evidence for worsening of learning and memory due to increased adherence in moderate disease was also detected. Application to APPLES illustrates that this method can yield bias corrections for unobserved confounders that are substantial—revealing new clinical findings. Use of this fully general method throughout sleep research could sharpen understanding of the true efficacy of pharmacotherapies, medical devices, and behavioral interventions. Extensive technical appendices are provided to facilitate application of this general method.Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT00051363.

Distinct polysomnographic and ECG-spectrographic phenotypes embedded within obstructive sleep apnea

BackgroundThe primary metric extracted from the polysomnogram in patients with sleep apnea is the apnea-hypopnea index (or respiratory disturbance index) and its derivatives. Other phenomena of possible importance such as periods of stable breathing, features suggestive of high respiratory control loop gain, and sleep fragmentation phenotypes are not commonly generated in clinical practice or research. A broader phenotype designation can provide insights into biological processes, and possibly clinical therapy outcome effects.MethodsThe dataset used for this study was the archived baseline diagnostic polysomnograms from the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES). The electrocardiogram (ECG)-derived cardiopulmonary coupling sleep spectrogram was computed from the polysomnogram. Sleep fragmentation phenotypes used thresholds of sleep efficiency (SE) ≤ 70%, non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep N1 ≥ 30%, wake after sleep onset (WASO) ≥ 60 min, and high frequency coupling (HFC) on the ECG-spectrogram ≤ 30%. Sleep consolidation phenotypes used thresholds of SE ≥ 90%, WASO ≤ 30 min, HFC ≥ 50% and N1 ≤ 10%. Multiple and logistic regression analysis explored cross-sectional associations with covariates and across phenotype categories. NREM vs. REM dominant apnea categories were identified when the NREM divided by REM respiratory disturbance index (RDI) was > 1.ResultsThe data was binned first into mild, moderate, severe and extreme categories based on the respiratory disturbance index of < 10, 10–30, 30–60, and greater than 60, per hour of sleep. Using these criteria, 70, 394, 320 and 188 for polysomnogram, and 54, 296, 209 and 112 subjects for ECG-spectrogram analysis groups. All phenotypes were seen at all severity levels. There was a higher correlation of NREM-RDI with the amount of ECG-spectrogram narrow band coupling, vs. REM-RDI, 0.41 vs 0.14, respectively. NREM dominance was associated with male gender and higher mixed/central apnea indices. Absence of the ECG-spectrogram sleep consolidated phenotype was associated with an increased odds of being on antihypertensive medications, OR 2.65 [CI: 1.64–4.26], p = < 0.001.ConclusionsDistinct phenotypes are readily seen at all severities of sleep apnea, and can be identified from conventional polysomnography. The ECG-spectrogram analysis provides further phenotypic differentiation.

Impact of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on quality of life in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Obstructive sleep apnea is a chronic illness with increasing prevalence. In addition to associated cardiovascular comorbidities, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome has been linked to poor quality of life, occupational accidents, and motor vehicle crashes secondary to excessive daytime sleepiness. Although continuous positive airway pressure is the gold standard for sleep apnea treatment, its effects on quality of life are not well defined. In the current study we investigated the effects of treatment on quality of life using the data from the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES), a randomized controlled trial of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) versus sham CPAP. The Calgary Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index (SAQLI) was used to assess quality of life. Overall we found no significant improvement in quality of life among sleep apnea patients after CPAP treatment. However, after stratifying by OSA severity, it was found that long-term improvement in quality of life might occur with the use of CPAP in people with severe and possibly moderate sleep apnea, and no demonstrable improvement in quality of life was noted among participants with mild obstructive sleep apnea.

Impact of Randomization, Clinic Visits, and Medical and Psychiatric Cormorbidities on Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Adherence in Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

To evaluate factors associated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) adherence in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES) cohort. The data from a prospective 6-mo multicenter randomized controlled trial with 558 subjects randomized to active CPAP and 547 to sham CPAP were analyzed to assess adherence to CPAP during first 2 mo (early period) and during months 5-6 (late period). Participants randomized to active CPAP had higher hours of nightly adherence compared to the sham CPAP group at both 2 (4.9 ± 2.0 h versus 4.07 ± 2.14 h, p < 0.001) and 6 mo (4.70 ± 2.08 h versus 3.41 ± 2.19 h, p < 0.001). Those assigned to sham CPAP were more likely to correctly identify their treatment group (70.0% versus 55.2%, p < 0.001). Irrespective of treatment group assignment, those who believed they were receiving active CPAP had higher hours of adherence than those who thought they were in the sham CPAP group at both 2 mo (4.91 ± 2.01 versus 4.17 ± 2.17, p < 0.001) and 6 mo (4.65 ± 2.10 versus 3.65 ± 2.22, p < 0.001). Among those randomized to active CPAP, older age was significantly related to CPAP use > 4 h per night. Presence of cardiovascular disorders was associated with higher hours of CPAP use, whereas presence of anxiety was associated with a trend toward lower hours of CPAP use. Presence of nasal congestion was associated with a decrease in mean daily CPAP use between the early and the late adherence period. The adherence during the week prior to a clinic visit was higher than the average adherence during the 2-mo period prior to the visit. Randomization to active therapy, belief that one is in the active treatment group, older age, and possibly presence of cardiovascular disorders are positively linked to CPAP adherence. Nasal congestion and anxiety are negatively associated with CPAP adherence. CPAP nightly usage increases as clinic visits approach.

Are we underestimating the lifelong benefits of therapy for obstructive sleep apnea?

Are we underestimating the lifelong benefits of therapy for obstructive sleep apnea?

Lack of Impact of Mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea on Sleepiness, Mood and Quality of Life.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with sleepiness, depression and reduced quality of life. However, it is unclear whether mild OSA has these negative impacts. Using data from the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES), this study determined whether participants with mild OSA had greater sleepiness, more depressive symptoms and poorer quality of life in comparison to those without OSA. 239 individuals evaluated for participation in APPLES with a baseline apnea hypopnea index (AHI) < 15 /hour were assigned to 1 of 2 groups: No OSA (N=40, AHI < 5 /hour) or Mild OSA (N=199, 5 to <15 /hour) based on their screening polysomnogram. Scores on their Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Stanford Sleepiness Scale (SSS), Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D), Profile of Mood States (POMS) and Sleep Apnea Quality of Life Index (SAQLI) were compared between groups. There were no significant differences between the No OSA and Mild OSA groups on any of the 5 measures: ESS (No OSA, 9.8 ± 3.5 vs Mild OSA, 10.6 ± 4.3, p=0.26), SSS,(2.8 ± 0.9 vs. 2.9 ± 1.0, p=0.52), HAM-D (4.6 ± 3.0 vs. 4.9 ± 4.7, p=0.27), POMS (33.5 ± 22.3 vs. 28.7 ± 22.0, p=0.70), SAQLI (4.5 ± 0.8 vs. 4.7 ± 0.7, p=0.39). Individuals with mild OSA in this cohort do not have worse sleepiness, mood or quality of life in comparison to those without OSA.

Impact of CPAP on activity patterns and diet in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Patients with severe OSA consume greater amounts of cholesterol, protein, and fat as well as have greater caloric expenditure. However, it is not known whether their activity levels or diet change after treatment with CPAP. To investigate this issue, serial assessments of activity and dietary intake were performed in the Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES); a 6-month randomized controlled study of CPAP vs. sham CPAP on neurocognitive outcomes. Subjects were recruited into APPLES at 5 sites through clinic encounters or public advertisement. After undergoing a diagnostic polysomnogram, subjects were randomized to CPAP or sham if their AHI was ≥ 10. Adherence was assessed using data cards from the devices. At the Tucson and Walla Walla sites, subjects were asked to complete validated activity and food frequency questionnaires at baseline and their 4-month visit. Activity and diet data were available at baseline and after 4 months treatment with CPAP or sham in up to 231 subjects (117 CPAP, 114 Sham). Mean age, AHI, BMI, and Epworth Sleepiness Score (ESS) for this cohort were 55 ± 13 [SD] years, 44 ± 27 /h, 33 ± 7.8 kg/m(2), and 10 ± 4, respectively. The participants lacking activity and diet data were younger, had lower AHI and arousal index, and had better sleep efficiency (p < 0.05). The BMI was higher among women in both CPAP and Sham groups. However, compared to women, men had higher AHI only in the CPAP group (50 vs. 34). Similarly, the arousal index was higher among men in CPAP group. Level of adherence defined as hours of device usage per night at 4 months was significantly higher among men in CPAP group (4.0 ± 2.9 vs. 2.6 ± 2.6). No changes in consumption of total calories, protein, carbohydrate or fat were noted after 4 months. Except for a modest increase in recreational activity in women (268 ± 85 vs. 170 ± 47 calories, p < 0.05), there also were no changes in activity patterns. Except for a modest increase in recreational activity in women, OSA patients treated with CPAP do not substantially change their diet or physical activity habits after treatment. .

Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome with Nasal Positive Airway Pressure Improves Golf Performance

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is associated with impairment of cognitive function, and improvement is often noted with treatment. Golf is a sport that requires a range of cognitive skills. We evaluated the impact of nasal positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy on the handicap index (HI) of golfers with OSAS. Golfers underwent a nocturnal polysomnogram (NPSG) to determine whether they had significant OSAS (respiratory disturbance index > 15). Twelve subjects with a positive NPSG were treated with PAP. HI, an Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and sleep questionnaire (SQ) were submitted upon study entry. After 20 rounds of golf on PAP treatment, the HI was recalculated, and the questionnaires were repeated. A matched control group composed of non-OSAS subjects was studied to assess the impact of the study construct on HI, ESS, and SQ. Statistical comparisons between pre- and post-PAP treatment were calculated. The control subjects demonstrated no significant change in HI, ESS, or SQ during this study, while the OSAS group demonstrated a significant drop in average HI (11.3%, p = 0.01), ESS, (p = 0.01), and SQ (p = 0.003). Among the more skilled golfers (defined as HI ≤ 12), the average HI dropped by an even greater degree (31.5%). Average utilization of PAP was 91.4% based on data card reporting. Treatment of OSAS with PAP enhanced performance in golfers with this condition. Treatment adherence was unusually high in this study. Non-medical performance improvement may be a strong motivator for selected subjects with OSAS to seek treatment and maximize adherence.

Impact of Treatment with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) on Weight in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

To determine the impact of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on weight change in persons with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The Apnea Positive Pressure Long-term Efficacy Study (APPLES) was a 6-month, randomized, double-blinded sham-controlled multicenter clinical trial conducted at 5 sites in the United States. Of 1,105 participants with an apnea hypopnea index ≥ 10 events/ hour initially randomized, 812 had body weight measured at baseline and after 6 months of study. CPAP or Sham CPAP. Body weight, height, hours of CPAP or Sham CPAP use, Epworth Sleepiness Scale score. Participants randomized to CPAP gained 0.35 ± 5.01 kg, whereas those on Sham CPAP lost 0.70 ± 4.03 kg (mean ± SD, p = 0.001). Amount of weight gain with CPAP was related to hours of device adherence, with each hour per night of use predicting a 0.42 kg increase in weight. This association was not noted in the Sham CPAP group. CPAP participants who used their device ≥ 4 h per night on ≥ 70% of nights gained the most weight over 6 months in comparison to non-adherent CPAP participants (1.0 ± 5.3 vs. -0.3 ± 5.0 kg, p = 0.014). OSA patients using CPAP may gain a modest amount of weight with the greatest weight gain found in those most compliant with CPAP. A commentary on this article appears in this issue on page 995. Quan SF; Budhiraja R; Clarke DP; Goodwin JL; Gottlieb DJ; Nichols DA; Simon RD; Smith TW; Walsh JK; Kushida CA. Impact of treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on weight in obstructive sleep apnea.