# Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Among the Adult Population in the Northeastern Region of Romania

## TL;DR

This study evaluated the effectiveness of two questionnaires for screening sleep apnea in adults from northeastern Romania, finding strong links to obesity, age, and other health conditions.

## Contribution

The study validates STOP-Bang and Epworth questionnaires for preoperative OSA screening in a specific Romanian population.

## Key findings

- STOP-Bang identified high OSA risk in individuals with high BMI, age over 50, or large neck circumference.
- Epworth showed increased daytime sleepiness in obese individuals and those with other health issues.
- OSA was significantly correlated with obesity, age, and associated pathologies, but not strongly with gender.

## Abstract

Background: Sleep apnea is a breathing affliction that affects sleep quality, with significant implications for overall physical and oral health, as well as mental health. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the validity of the STOP-Bang and Epworth questionnaires as preoperative screening tools for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in the adult population from the NE region of Romania. Materials and Methods: A total of 222 participants were selected. The questionnaire method was used, with the subjects completing the STOP-Bang and Epworth questionnaires. A chi-squared test, an ANOVA, and Student’s t-tests were used for the statistical analysis. Results: the STOP-Bang questionnaire revealed an increased risk of OSA among those with a high BMI, an age over 50 years, or a large neck circumference. Regarding the Epworth questionnaire, daytime sleepiness was more frequent among obese individuals and those with associated pathologies. Significant correlations were found between OSA and obesity, age, and associated pathologies, with limited observations on the influence of gender on the risk of OSA. Conclusions: The studied questionnaires are effective and easy-to-use tools for the preoperative screening of OSA, demonstrating a significant correlation between the identified risk factors and the disease severity.