[Relationship between age and cardiovascular complications in obstructive sleep apnoea].

INTRODUCTION Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to assess relations between cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and age in OSA subjects. MATERIAL AND METHODS Consecutive OSA subjects (AHI/RDI > 10, Epworth score > 9 points) were evaluated. The chest X-ray, spirometry, arterial blood gases, ECG, blood morphology and biochemistry were performed during trial treatment with autoCPAP. RESULTS We studied 533 consecutive OSA patients, mean age 55.6 +/- 10.3 years (range 24-81), with obesity (BMI 34.4 +/- 6.6 kg/m(2)) and severe OSA (AHI/RDI 37.8 +/- 21.8). To evaluate relations between CVD and age, patients were divided into three groups. Group 1 < 50 years (123 subjects, 23.1%), Group 2 aged 50-60 years (250 subjects, 46.9%) and Group 3 > 60 years (160 subjects, 30%). Subjects < 50 years were more obese and had higher AHI/RDI when compared to older groups. Incidence of arterial hypertension, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, heart failure and stroke increased with age (higher in subjects > 60 years). CONCLUSIONS Cardiovascular diseases were prevalent in OSA patients > 60 years. However the youngest group presented with more severe obesity and higher AHI/RDI.