Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in truck drivers

Abstract

Professional drivers show a higher prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) com-pared with the general population. OSA has been widely associated with an increased risk of traffic accidents. This article aims to investigate the pres-ence of risk factors for OSA, its prevalence and the value of screening tools in a truck drivers’ cohort. Descriptive and analytical prospective study. De-mographic, anthropometric, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, STOP-Bang and Berlin Questionnaire were used to select subjects with suspicion of OSA. Polysomnography (PSG) was performed in individuals with positive screening. Mean age was 44.6±7 years, mean body mass index was 28.7±4 kg/m². Of the 281 truck drivers screened, 88 were positive for potential OSA. Of these, 63 completed PSG study and the diagnosis was confirmed in 85.7% (prevalence of 19.2%). The following variables showed a positive correlation with the apnea-hypopnea index: neck circumference and STOP-Bang. The combination of a predominant-ly male population, obesity, age distribution and lifestyle could account for the high prevalence of OSA in this specific population. Questionnaires proved to be a valuable screening tool. Screening, treatment, and management of OSA should be a priority as a public safety policy.