Evaluation of Quality of Life in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome and Risk of Sleep Apnea Using SF-36 Short Form

Abstract Modern healthcare emphasizes the importance of assessing the quality of life in patients with metabolic syndrome and risk of sleep apnea using validated tools such as the SF-36 Short Form. Studies reveal a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Romania, with rates of 45% in women and 44% in men, and its frequent association with sleep apnea due to shared risk factors. Research findings indicate a strong connection between hypertension, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance, all of which are central components of metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, sleep apnea exacerbates cardiometabolic complications through recurrent episodes of hypopnea and apnea, leading to sleep fragmentation and intermittent hypoxemia. These dysfunctions trigger cascades of hemodynamic, autonomic, and inflammatory responses, increasing cardiometabolic risks and impairing quality of life. The objective of this study is to investigate the correlations between metabolic parameters and quality of life, offering valuable insights into the mechanisms linking metabolic syndrome and sleep apnea.