Prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Introduction
The occurrence of chronic obstructive airway disease and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a popular syndrome called overlap syndrome.


Aim
To evaluate the prevalence of OSA in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).


Patients and methods
A total of 86 patients with COPD (54.65% men, with a mean age of 62.065 years) were included in our study. Clinical criteria and biochemical tests were registered, and polysomnography was done.


Results
Overall, 38 patients with an apnea–hypopnea index more than 5 events/h were defined as having overlap syndrome (44.19%).


Conclusion
The results showed an OSA prevalence of 44.19% in patients with COPD. A sleep study should be considered in overweight patients with COPD, even in patients without symptoms of sleep apnea.