Studying How CPAP Therapy Affects Blood Pressure and Heart Rate in Adults with Moderate to Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how continuous positive airway pressure CPAP therapy affects 24-hour average blood pressure in patients with obstructive sleep apnea OSA, focusing on whether responses vary by different symptom types. This observational, multi-center study involves adults aged 30 to 75 with moderate to severe OSA. The study compares patients who use CPAP therapy as prescribed with those who do not, aiming to better understand cardiovascular outcomes related to OSA treatment. Participants diagnosed with OSA and prescribed CPAP will be followed over time. Key measurements include 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure, sitting blood pressure, heart rate variability via electrocardiogram, facial photographs, psychomotor vigilance tests, questionnaires on lifestyle and co-existing conditions, and blood samples for markers related to diabetes, heart injury, inflammation, coagulation, and genetics. These assessments occur at the start of the study and again after six months of CPAP therapy. The study uses statistical methods to account for differences between those who adhere to CPAP and those who do not. During the study, participants complete questionnaires about demographics, lifestyle, and cardiovascular disease risks, and blood pressure monitoring is performed. They will be contacted yearly by phone for up to ten years to update information on OSA treatment use, new health problems like heart attacks or strokes, and medication changes. Researchers will analyze blood pressure changes and heart rate variability before and after CPAP therapy to evaluate its effects. The total follow-up includes initial assessments, six-month visits, and long-term telephone monitoring.

Effects of CPAP Therapy on Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Variability in Obstructive Sleep Apnea