0682 Mask Experience Among Positive Airway Pressure Therapy-Treated Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Abstract Introduction Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy is highly efficacious for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, patients may struggle to become adherent to therapy without appropriate support. This analysis examined survey responses from a patient engagement tool to characterize early PAP experiences and identify common patient-reported concerns. Methods Check-ins accessed through the myAir (Resmed) app platform are designed to improve adherence to PAP therapy by providing educational content based on answers to periodic questions. Surveys administered in the app starting in April 2024 on Day 7 (n=905,450) and Day 28 (n=695,033) of therapy were examined. At each time point, patients were asked how their therapy was going, and to identify the primary challenge if they were struggling. Results were summarized overall, and by mask type (full face, nasal, and nasal pillow, regardless of brand) and gender. Results At Day 7, 30%, 47%, and 22% reported that therapy was going ‘great’, ‘ok’, and ‘challenging’, respectively. Of those who reported ‘ok’ or ‘challenging’, the most common concern was with their mask. Of mask issues, general discomfort (ie: ‘getting used to the mask’; 38%), air leaks (22%), and fit (19%) were the most prevalent. Among those reporting mask concerns, air leaks were more common among those with full-face masks (29%) compared to those with nasal (17%) or nasal pillow (13%) masks, while general discomfort was less common (full-face: 35% vs. nasal: 41% and nasal pillow: 39%). Females were more likely to report any issue in general, and a mask issue specifically, although the types of mask concerns were similar across gender. Similar trends emerged among patients who responded at Day 28, although fewer patients reported issues both overall and about masks at that time. Conclusion In the first month of therapy, patients struggling to adjust to PAP identified mask-related issues as a primary concern. These results suggest that mask fit and comfort substantially shape patient experience. Greater emphasis on mask trial and individualized fit at therapy initiation may help address common barriers to treatment acceptance and support more patients in establishing stable, compliant therapy earlier. Support (if any) Resmed