The Association of Sedentary Behavior with OSA: A Cross-Sectional Study from NHANES (2007-2008 to 2015-2020)

Abstract

Abstract Background Sedentary behavior (SB) may contribute to obesity and lower extremity fluid retention, which may favor the development of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, linking sedentary behavior to OSA is unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine if there is an association between SB and OSA. Methods This secondary analysis included National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) participants (unweighted = 20,727). Weighted sample and multiple logistic regression complex sample analysis techniques were used in this study. Three typical questions for the assessment of OSA have been used in the NHANES questionnaire. A physical activity questionnaire was used to assess SB. Results After adjustment for confounders, participants with SB(> 8h/d) had a higher risk of OSA(OR = 1.247,95%CI(1.100-1.414),P = 0.001) compared to SB(0-4h/d). Stratified analysis by gender showed that there was no significant correlation of SB and OSA in men. However, in women, with SB(0-4h/d) as reference, participants with SB(> 8h/d) had a higher risk of OSA (OR = 1.443,95%CI(1.210–1.722),P < 0.001). Conclusion Analysis in this study showed a positive correlation between SB and OSA, more pronounced in women. To reduce the risk of OSA, a healthy lifestyle is recommended.