High-risk prevalence for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in elderly population resident in the rural area of Rio Grande-RS

Abstract Background The elderly population tends to increase in Brazil over the years. Among the chronic health issues associated with aging, it is pointed out the Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS). Objective To verify high risk prevalence for OSAS and its associated factors in the elderly population living in the rural area of the municipality of Rio Grande. Method A cross-sectional population-based study with random sampling was carried out. The Berlin Questionnaire was used to categorize the outcome, which consists of assessing a low- and high-risk OSAS, and the independent variables were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Results 1,030 elderly people were interviewed. The prevalence of high risk of OSAS was 38.4%. In the adjusted analysis or related to the high risk of OSAS; it was higher in women PR 1.18 (95% CI 1.01-1.38); elderly people aged 60 to 69 years PR 1.78 (1.32-1.38); individuals residing with a partner PR 1.28 (95% CI 1.06-1.53); diabetics individuals PR 1.27 (95% CI 1.05-1.53); individuals who had lung disease PR 1.47 (95% CI 1), 16-1.86) and individuals who had cerebrovascular accident PR 1.36 (95% CI 1.07-1.76). Conclusion The results of this research infer that the high prevalence of OSAS in the elderly population living in the rural area of Rio Grande is associated with several other factors.