Obstructive sleep apnea and the role of primary care physicians in its management: a Pakistani perspective

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep related breathing disorder with a prevalence ranging from 10 to 12.4% in Pakistan. It is commonly associated with obesity and otolaryngological disorders, with cardiovascular complications such as hypertension and dyslipidemias. If unrecognized and untreated, OSA can lead to cardiovascular and neurologic sequelae. Given the dearth of trained sleep physicians in Pakistan, there is a need for primary care physicians to step up and play a role in the screening, referral, and management of OSA. For this, education and training of general practitioners and creation of a proper referral system can play an important role, eventually decreasing disease morbidity and associated complications of socioeconomic strain.