Prevalence of depression in patients of obstructive sleep apnea

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by recurrent upper airway obstruction, intermittent hypoxemia, and sleep fragmentation. Increasing evidence suggests a strong association between OSA and depression; however, prevalence estimates vary across populations. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of depression among patients with OSA and to evaluate its correlation with OSA severity. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, observational study was conducted over 24 months in the Departments of Respiratory Medicine and Psychiatry at Era’s Lucknow Medical College and Hospital. A total of 140 adult patients diagnosed with OSA through Level I polysomnography were included. OSA severity was classified based on apnea– hypopnea index (AHI) into mild, moderate, and severe categories. Depression was assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test, analysis of variance, and Pearson correlation. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software. Results: Among 140 patients, 60% were found to have depression. Severe OSA constituted 37.2% of cases. Depression prevalence increased significantly with OSA severity: 23.3% in mild OSA, 60% in moderate OSA, and 90.4% in severe OSA. Mild depression was most common (63.1%), followed by moderate (33.3%) and severe depression (3.6%). A highly significant association was observed between OSA severity and depression presence, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) score, and AHI (P<0.001). Conclusion: Depression is highly prevalent among OSA patients, particularly in moderate and severe disease. A strong severity-dependent association exists between OSA and depressive symptoms. Routine psychiatric screening in OSA patients is strongly recommended to improve overall clinical outcomes.