Relationship between Charlson Comorbidity Index and Obstructive Sleep Apnea severity indicators in a Tunisian cohort

INTRODUCTION: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a recognized cardiovascular risk factor, associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) is widely used to measure comorbidities in chronic conditions. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the CCI as a potential screening tool for severe OSA by assessing its association with OSA severity predictors. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted at a pneumology department, including OSA patients. The CCI was assessed and its median CCI calculated. Patients were divided to two groups: Group1 including patients with CCI greater than or equal to the median, and group2 below the median. RESULTS: Median CCI was 3±1.6. Statistical analysis showed a significant association between a CCI greater than or equal to 3 and age (63 vs 47 years; p