Chronotype Variations in Sleep Apnea Patients:Co-Existing Symptoms & Comorbidities

<bold>Introduction:</bold> Chronotype refers to the inherent preference for the timing of sleep and wakefulness. While its association with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is described, the correlation and causal link between chronotype and comorbidities in OSA patients remain unclear. <bold>Aims:</bold> Exploring the relationship between chronotype, symptoms and comorbidities in OSA patients. <bold>Methods:</bold> We performed a cross-sectional study in our Sleep Laboratory (Department of Clinical Therapeutics, “Alexandra” Hospital, Athens), evaluating newly diagnosed OSA pts (11/2022-11/2023). We handed out questionnaires regarding socio-demographic information, history of comorbidities, chronotype assessment (MEQ), and psychometric scales assessing anxiety (HADS-A), depression (HADS-D), insomnia (AIS), and sleepiness (ESS). <bold>Results:</bold> 173 patients were included in our study (Table1). Different chronotypes correlated with age, hypertension, cardiac comorbidities and depression (Table 2). It is noted that individuals with symptoms of insomnia, had an evening chronotype. Discussion: The coexistence of OSA and insomnia may imply a distinct phenotype in patients with an evening chronotype. These patients might be perceived as abnormal due to societal norms favoring morning types. Our findings highlight this possible unique OSA phenotype, emphasizing the necessity for pragmatic approaches to accommodate diverse chronotypes in clinical management. <fig><object-id>erj;64/suppl_68/PA2690/F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><graphic></graphic></fig>