Correlation of Blood Pressure and Body Mass Index with the Severity of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (Code- T0072)

Background: Sleep is a vital physiological process that can be disrupted by various somatic or mental health conditions. Sleep disturbances affect normal sleep regulation, leading to symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, irritability, reduced attention and focus, and impaired physical and cognitive abilities, which can negatively impact quality of life. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep disorder strongly linked to obesity and hypertension. Body Mass Index (BMI) plays a crucial role in determining OSA severity, with obesity being a leading risk factor. The coexistence of obesity and OSA often creates a reciprocal relationship, where each condition exacerbates the other, necessitating comprehensive investigation.

Aims and Objectives:

1. Correlation of blood pressure with the severity of obstructive sleep apnea
2. Correlation of body mass index with obstructive sleep apnea
3. To assess the triangular correlation between blood pressure, body mass index, obstructive sleep apnea

Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted over 24 months at JSS Medical College and Hospital, Mysore, involving 200 participants. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, OSA severity, blood pressure, and BMI were collected and analyzed to determine statistically significant correlations between these factors.

Results: The mean age of participants was 52.35 ± 12.67 years, with a male predominance (60%) compared to females (40%). Among the participants, 70% had severe OSA, 25% had moderate OSA, and 5% had mild OSA. A statistically significant correlation was observed between hypertension severity, BMI grades, and OSA severity. Higher BMI and hypertension grades were associated with increased Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) scores. Additionally, BMI showed a strong positive correlation with hypertension severity, highlighting the interconnected nature of these variables.

Conclusion: This study underscores the complex relationship between blood pressure, BMI, and OSA severity. Elevated BMI and hypertension are critical risk factors contributing to OSA's progression. Addressing these factors through lifestyle changes, weight management, and appropriate therapeutic interventions can reduce OSA severity and enhance health outcomes. By understanding these interdependencies, healthcare providers can develop tailored management strategies to improve the quality of life for individuals with OSA.

Keywords: Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Obesity, Hypertension, Body Mass Index, Apnea-Hypopnea Index, Sleep Disorders, Quality of Life.