0617 Cultural and Gender Dynamics in Hispanic/Latinx Couples Managing OSA and PAP Therapy

Introduction Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and PAP therapy affect not only individuals but also the health, functioning, and sleep of romantic partners. These dynamics may be particularly salient in Hispanic/Latinx families, where core sociocultural values shape how couples perceive illness, engage in treatment, and support one another. Yet little work has examined how Hispanic/Latinx couples experience OSA and PAP use, including cultural and gender dynamics. This study explored how these experiences shape daily life, shared sleep, and relationships. Methods We conducted three Spanish-language virtual focus group discussions (FGDs) with Hispanic/Latinx adults with OSA (with and without PAP use) and their partners together. A semi-structured facilitator guide examined: (1) interdependence of sleep within couples managing OSA; (2) collaborative and gendered strategies used to address sleep-related challenges; and (3) perceived barriers and facilitators to PAP use in the context of cultural values. FGDs were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed. Results Participants (N = 18; 9 male, 9 female; 9 PAP users, 9 non-users; Mage = 54.3 years, SD = 11.3, range = 37–76) consistently described OSA as a shared problem that influenced safety, mood, sleep quality, and intimacy. Partners, most often women, reported sleep loss, hypervigilance, and anxiety related to their partner’s symptoms, as well as taking primary responsibility for reminders, equipment setup, and troubleshooting PAP. Over time, many partners described fatigue and frustration, while some men minimized symptoms or disengaged from care. Gendered expectations were a pervasive theme: women were described as “on top of everything,” carrying caregiving and household responsibilities. Cultural norms such as familismo and marianismo intensified these caregiving loads and shaped decisions about seeking and maintaining treatment. PAP use sometimes disrupted intimacy and self-image but also reduced conflict and improved rest when couples collaborated effectively. Conclusion Findings demonstrate that OSA management in Hispanic/Latinx families is a deeply interdependent, dyadic process shaped by sociocultural values and gendered caregiving roles. Culturally responsive, couples-based education and support may enhance PAP adherence while reducing the disproportionate burden placed on women partners, improving sleep health and well-being for both patients and their partners. Support (if any)