Association Between Sleep Apnea and ENT Disorders Among Obese Adults in Mirpur, AJK

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the association between sleep apnea and ENT disorders among obese adults in Mirpur, AJK

Study Design: A cross-sectional study

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Department Of   Community   Medicine  & ENT of  DHQ Hospital & MBBS Medical College Mirpur AJK from 1^st   July 2023  To 30^th  January   2024.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 300 obese adults (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) aged 18–60 years in Mirpur, AJK. Sleep apnea was assessed using the STOP-BANG questionnaire and polysomnography. ENT disorders were evaluated through clinical examinations. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regression to determine associations

Results: Participants, 72% (n=180) were diagnosed with sleep apnea. ENT disorders were highly prevalent among those with sleep apnea, including nasal obstruction (48%, p<0.001), tonsillar hypertrophy (35%, p=0.002), and deviated nasal septum (22%, p=0.01). Logistic regression showed that individuals with nasal obstruction were 2.5 times more likely to have sleep apnea (OR=2.5; 95% CI: 1.8–3.4), while those with tonsillar hypertrophy had a 1.8-fold increased risk (OR=1.8; 95% CI: 1.2–2.7). BMI was significantly correlated with sleep apnea severity (r=0.6, p<0.00

Conclusion: The study demonstrates a strong association between sleep apnea and ENT disorders among obese adults in Mirpur, AJK. Integrated management of obesity and ENT conditions is essential for effective sleep apnea intervention.