Silent threat: Prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea and its risk factors among adults in a block of West Bengal.

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent yet underdiagnosed sleep disorder characterized by repeated upper airway obstruction during sleep, contributing to significant health risks. While global data highlight its high prevalence, evidence from rural Indian populations remains limited. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of people at risk of OSA among adults (≥18 years) residing in Budge-Budge II block of West Bengal and to identify associated socio-clinical risk factors, if any. Methods: This community-based study was conducted from November 2024 to January 2025 in Budge-Budge II Block, West Bengal. A sample of 205 adults was selected using multistage random sampling. Data were collected through household visits using a pre-tested structured schedule that included the modified Berlin questionnaire for OSA risk assessment. Medical records were reviewed; anthropometric measurements and blood pressure recordings were obtained. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and logistic regression to identify risk factors. Results: The mean age of the participants was 43.35 ± 16.30 years, and 54% were female. The overall prevalence of high risk for OSA was 29%, with a higher proportion among males (57.6%). Hypertension was present in 31.7% of the participants, while 40% had a body mass index above the normal range. Multivariate analysis identified significant associations (P < 0.05) between high risk for OSA and factors such as advanced age, male gender, hypertension, obesity, and regular alcohol consumption. Conclusion: The study observed a substantial burden of undiagnosed OSA risk in rural West Bengal. Given the association with modifiable risk factors, community-level interventions, including the training of health workers for early screening using tools like the modified Berlin questionnaire and prompt referral, can aid in reducing the public health impact of OSA in underserved areas.