Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Its Cardiac Implications in the United States: An Age‐Stratified Analysis Between Young and Older Adults

Background Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder associated with cardiovascular risks. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of probable OSA and its relationship with cardiovascular risks and diseases focusing on age‐stratified young adults (20–40 years) and older (>40 years). Methods and Results The study used a cross‐sectional design, analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2013 and 2018, comprising 9887 community‐dwelling adults aged ≥20 years. Probable OSA was determined on the basis of self‐report of OSA‐related symptoms (eg, snoring, gasping/breath cessation while sleeping). Cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and metabolic syndrome, were evaluated according to established guidelines. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) included self‐reported heart conditions, including congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, angina, heart attacks, and strokes. Individuals with probable OSA showed a significantly higher prevalence of health conditions, including hypertension (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR], 1.19; P