P011 Profile of indigenous Australian patients with OSA in the NT

Abstract Aim Prevalence of OSA among Indigenous Australians has rarely been described, and due to unique geographic and sociodemographic characteristics, symptoms and risk factors may differ from other patient populations. This study aims to describe the clinical presentation of Indigenous Australian OSA patients. Methods This retrospective study included all Indigenous Australian patients in the Top End of the NT who had undergone a diagnostic sleep study between 2011-2020. We extracted data on anthropometrics and demographics, clinical comorbidities, OSA prevalence and severity. Results 727 Indigenous patients were included (49.1% female, median age 46.9 years (IQR 38, 56.9), BMI 34.5 kg/m2 (IQR 30, 39.8), neck circumference 43cms (IQR 39, 46.5)). 65.4% resided in very remote areas where prevalence of comorbidities was higher (remote vs. urban: 53 vs. 46.7% hypertension, 40.7 vs. 33.6% diabetes, 36.5 vs. 31.4% heart disease, 22 vs. 14.9% COPD, 16.5 vs 17.9% depression/anxiety and 19.1 vs. 10.5% kidney disease). 69.9% (114/163) reported screen usage prior to bed and 40% (140/350) waking feeling refreshed always or almost-always. 644 (88.6%) recorded OSA of which 170 (26.4%) were mild, 162 (25.2%) moderate and 312 (48.5%) severe with a median AHI 59 (IQR 42.8, 81.9). Conclusion In the NT, Indigenous Australian OSA patients present at a relatively young age with an even gender split and a high proportion residing remotely. Patients demonstrate a high prevalence of cardiovascular/respiratory/metabolic comorbidities – particularly remote residing patients. 49% demonstrate severe OSA, with significantly heightened AHI. Geography and comorbidities may present challenges to management of Indigenous Australian OSA patients.