Is there more risk of OSA in patients with schizophrenia?

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Background: Risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are common in people with schizophrenia. OSA may be prevalent and potentially under-recognized and under-treated in people with schizophrenia. Aims: To determine, in people with schizophrenia: the prevalence of OSA; the physical and psychiatric correlates of OSA, associations between antipsychotic medications and OSA and the impact of treatment of OSA on psychiatric and physical health. Methods: We reviewed major electronic databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) from 1980 until May 2019. Articles were included if reported prevalence of OSA determined by polysomnography (PSG) -an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) >5 events/hr- and/or by pulse oximetry determined in patients with diagnosis of schizophrenia, according to structured clinical assessment and/ or meeting standardised diagnostic criteria. Results: OSA prevalence assessed in people with schizophrenia was estimated between 13.6 and 57.1%. Most studies showed significant independent effect regarding age, body mass index (BMI), and chronic neuroleptic use, on the presence of OSA in psychiatric patients, with the schizophrenic group having significantly higher BMI and increased rates of sleep apnea. Conclusion: People with schizophrenia have higher prevalence of OSA and this may negatively impact a range of health outcomes, therefore demands closer attention in clinical practice.