0891 Participants’ Experiences of a Mindfulness-Based Intervention to Improve CPAP Adherence in Adolescents with Sleep Apnea: A Qualitative Study

Abstract Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), characterized by intermittent upper airway blockage during sleep, is a common disorder in children. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the standard treatment for OSA, with its effectiveness relying on nightly use during sleep. However, adherence to CPAP among adolescents is often poor, leading to under-treatment and potential chronic health issues. Prior studies suggest that higher dispositional mindfulness correlates with better CPAP adherence in adults. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) have been linked to improved health in adolescents with chronic illnesses, but their effectiveness in improving CPAP adherence is unknown. This study aimed to explore adolescents’ experiences and perceptions of their participation in the MBI program. Methods This qualitative study was a part of a two-arm randomized controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of a 4-week online MBI program versus a peer-support program in 33 adolescents with OSA using CPAP. Semi-structured interviews were conducted post-intervention and four weeks later. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis framework. Independent coding was performed by two researchers, with themes developed collaboratively. Results Ten participants in the MBI arm, each with two interviews, were included in this preliminary analysis. Participants reported overall satisfaction with the program, valued social connections with peers, and appreciated learning mindfulness techniques that helped improve mood, stress, and anxiety. However, most did not perceive a direct impact on their CPAP use. Suggestions for improvement included increasing group size and incorporating more discussion about CPAP and OSA. Conclusion These interviews reveal the benefits of MBI on adolescents with OSA using CPAP, including positive psychosocial impacts. They also suggest areas for enhancing the delivery of MBI, particularly regarding logistical challenges and curriculum structure. Support (if any) This work was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Project Grant (Ref. no.: 452091).