Prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing among women working in the aged care services in Japan

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in women working in the field of aged care in Japan. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted for female employees aged 18-60 years in aged care facilities in Japan. The analyzed set consisted of 712 participants with complete data. SDB was determined by respiratory disturbance index (RDI), measured using an ambulatory airflow monitor with a polyvinylidene fluoride film sensor to detect nasal and oral airflow overnight at home. Based on the findings of previous studies, RDI 10 was considered equivalent to apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) 15. ResultsThe prevalence of moderate to severe SDB (RDI ≥ 10) was 22.8%. The mean age was 38.1 years, and mean sleeping time of participants was 6.1 hours. The median body mass index (BMI) was 22.0. Women with moderate to severe SDB (RDI ≥ 10) had a higher age, neck circumference, neck-height ratio, BMI, systolic blood pressure, and increased prevalence of hypertension, short sleepers (amount of sleep on the SDB testing day < 6 hours), and habitual snorers, compared to women with no or mild SDB (RDI < 10). ConclusionsOur study found that women working in the aged care services in Japan were heavily burdened by SDB even though they were relatively young and slim. To prevent CVD from developing in the future, programs through which workplaces can help their employees improve their lifestyle, and early diagnosis and treatment of SDB are highly recommended. (246 words)

Educating patients with upper limb dysfunction on self‐adjustment of the CPAP/NPPV mask: A case series

“…In Japan, the prevalence rate of SAS can be estimated between 17 and 23%, based on the various survey method. 2 , 3 SAS is known to cause not only daytime sleepiness or poor concentration, but also complications such as hypertension, atrial fibrillation, and glucose intolerance. 4 , 5 , 6 Among the treatment options, CPAP is the most common and reliable.…”

Risk factors and fraction of exhaled nitric oxide in obstructive sleep apnea in adults

“…Intermittent arterial oxygen desaturation, nocturnal arousal, and sleep disorders occur after a recurrent obstructive upper airway. 2 Previous studies have shown several risk factors of OSA, and these contribute to prevention and management of OSA. 3 …”

“…Intermittent arterial oxygen desaturation, nocturnal arousal, and sleep disorders occur after a recurrent obstructive upper airway. 2 Previous studies have shown several risk factors of OSA, and these contribute to prevention and management of OSA. 3 Nitric oxide (NO) is produced in the presence of inducible NO synthase enzyme within airway cells and is implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammation of the airway in some respiratory diseases.…”