Impact of obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome severity on quality of life, anxiety disorders, and productivity in an active population

Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a growing public health concern because of its increasing prevalence and harmful effects on physical and mental health. This disorder leads to disruptive symptoms such as daytime sleepiness and fatigue, which negatively affect vigilance, productivity, and quality of life. To investigate the impact of OSAHS severity on quality of life, productivity, and anxiety disorders in an active population. This cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2018 to June 2023 at Sahloul University Hospital among patients diagnosed with OSAHS. Excessive daytime sleepiness was assessed via the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, quality of life via the SF-12 Health Survey, mental health via the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), and work productivity via the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment (WPAI) questionnaire. During the study period, 93 active patients diagnosed with OSAHS were included. Severe OSAHS was identified in 35 patients (37.6%). Male sex and tobacco smoking were associated with increased severity of OSAHS (<i>p </i>= 0.002 and 0.005, respectively). Patients with severe OSAHS had a higher body mass index (BMI) (<i>p </i>= 0.043). A significant association was observed between depression and anxiety scores and the severity of OSAHS (<i>p </i>= 0.018 and 0.025, respectively). An alteration in quality of life was more pronounced in patients with severe OSAHS (<i>p </i>< 0.001). In terms of productivity, the severity of OSAHS was correlated with alterations in the four dimensions of the WPAI. After binary logistic regression, the severity of OSAHS was associated with BMI (<i>p </i>= 0.005; aOR = 1.16; 95% CI [1.04-1.29]) and presenteeism (<i>p</i> < 0.001, aOR = 1.08; 95% CI [1.04-1.11]). OSAHS has substantial professional repercussions and negative impacts on patients' quality of life. As this is a cross-sectional study, only statistical associations can be inferred. Nonetheless, promoting screening and access to care is crucial at both the individual and organizational levels.