Prevalence of high risk obstructive sleep apnoea by Berlin questionnaire in patients with hypertension: study from a tertiary care hospital

Abstract Background Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), a condition characterized by a complete or partial cessation of airflow during sleep, can cause various cardiovascular disorders including hypertension. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of OSA in patients with hypertension. Methods A cross-sectional prospective cohort study of 504 patients with hypertension was undertaken at a tertiary care hospital of India for a period of 6 months. OSA was evaluated using the Berlin questionnaire while the daytime sleepiness was determined using Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Data analysis was done using SPSS v. 20. Results High risk of OSA was identified in 120 (23.8%) patients and the prevalence of sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness score >16) was found to be 32.5% (95% CI, p  p P  P   Conclusion In the tertiary health care setting, the prevalence of high-risk of OSA in patients with hypertension is high. Screening for OSA should be a part of the hypertensive medical investigation and patients may benefit from a proper evaluation of OSA.