Quality of Life of Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea on CPAP Treatment in South West Nigeria: A Preliminary Report

Abstract

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is rising in Africa. The treatment of the disease involves the use of continuous positive airway pressure  (CPAP) machine. Information on the quality of life of patients with OSA on CPAPtherapy in Nigeria is scarce.

Objectives: This study assessed the quality of  life of patients with OSA on CPAP treatment in Lagos. The study also evaluated the daytime wakefulness, perception of quality of night sleep as well as  the physical and emotional activities of the patients.

Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study using a semi-structured questionnaire done at Lagos  State University Teaching Hospital from September 2021 to December 2021. All consenting patients with previous diagnosis of OSA with  polysomnography who have been regular on CPAP therapy for at least three months were recruited. Patients were contacted via WhatsApp, telephone or  physical interview.

Results: A total of 23 patients were contacted, of which 19 patients consented. There were 13 males and 6 females with a mean age of  53.63+/-13.1 years. All the participants had improvement in their general state of health. Majority of the patients had improvement in their sleep quality,  day-time sleepiness and snoring (n=17:89.5%, n=14:72% and n=12:63.2% respectively). Majority of the patients have no physical limitation on moderate  activities (n=12:63.2%). while 47.4% of responders have no social activities interference.

Conclusion: CPAP usage in patients with obstructive apnea is  associated with improved snoring, sleep quality, day-time somnolence and general quality of life.