Prevalence and associated factors of obstructive sleep apnea in patients with pneumoconiosis: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and clinical characteristics of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in pneumoconiosis patients using home sleep apnea tests (HSAT) and to identify associated risk factors. METHODS: This study is a single-center, cross-sectional investigation. Data collection encompassed clinical information, lung function, and arterial blood gas analysis. Additionally, patients completed questionnaires such as the STOP-BANG, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7), and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). RESULTS: The study enrolled 217 pneumoconiosis patients. Finding showed that 82% (179/217) had OSA: 37% (80) mild, 30% (65) moderate, and 15% (34) severe. Patients with moderate to severe OSA were significantly older than those with no or mild OSA groups (p = 0.005). Higher body mass index (BMI) was noted in patients with severe OSA compared to other groups (p < 0.001). Increased STOP-BANG scores were observed in moderate and severe OSA compared to no or mild OSA groups (p < 0.001). Additionally, arterial oxygen tension (PaO2) and arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) levels were significantly higher in patients without OSA (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis identified older age, pottery pneumoconiosis, and a history of smoking as risk factors for OSA. CONCLUSIONS: OSA prevalence is high in pneumoconiosis patients. Targeted attention to OSA is beneficial, particularly for older patients, those with pottery pneumoconiosis, or former smokers.