Understanding adherence to continuous positive airway pressure in patients with obstructive sleep apnea post‐stroke: A prospective study based on the Andersen model

Abstract Adherence to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) post‐stroke is often problematic, despite potential benefits. This study aimed to evaluate CPAP adherence in patients with OSA post‐stroke based on the Andersen behavioral model of health services utilization. A total of 227 eligible participants were recruited from a Chinese hospital. After baseline assessment, participants were followed for 6 months to determine short‐term CPAP adherence. Those with good short‐term adherence were followed for an additional 6 months to explore long‐term adherence and influencing factors. Short‐term CPAP adherence rate was 33%. Being married or living with a partner, having an associate degree or baccalaureate degree or higher, and stronger health beliefs independently predicted short‐term CPAP adherence. Only 25% of participants from the adherent group showed good long‐term adherence. The factor associated with long‐term CPAP adherence was participants not using alcohol. Adherence to CPAP is suboptimal among patients having OSA post‐stroke. Addressing unfavorable predisposing factors and modifying health beliefs are suggested.