Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome has a high prevalence in patients with cystic fibrosis, particularly in pediatric patients.
The pooled prevalence of OSAHS in patients with CF was 48% (I² = 96.5%), with slightly higher rates in pediatric patients than adults. The mean AHI was 3.47 in pediatric and 6.19 in adult CF patients, and those with OSAHS had worse pulmonary function and oxygen saturation.
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Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome has a high prevalence in patients with cystic fibrosis, particularly in pediatric patients. The current body of evidence comprises 1 study and 1 meta-analysis. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 47/100 (low).
The Claim
Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome has a high prevalence in patients with cystic fibrosis, particularly in pediatric patients.
This conclusion is most relevant to: Patients with cystic fibrosis (pediatric and adult).
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome in patients with cystic fibrosis: An updated systematic review and meta-analysismeta-analysis. (Medicine, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸Cystic fibrosis leads to airway inflammation and mucus obstruction
- ▸This contributes to upper airway collapse during sleep
- ▸Resulting in increased apnea-hypopnea events
- ▸Result: Higher prevalence of OSAHS in CF patients
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Patients with cystic fibrosis (pediatric and adult)
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸High heterogeneity (I² = 96.5%) suggests variability across studies
- ▸Limited number of studies included (14 total), potentially affecting generalizability
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prevalence of OSAHS in cystic fibrosis patients?▼
The pooled prevalence is 48%, based on a meta-analysis of 11 studies.
Is OSAHS more common in pediatric or adult CF patients?▼
The prevalence is slightly higher in pediatric CF patients compared to adults.
What is the mean apnea-hypopnea index in CF patients?▼
The mean AHI is 3.47 in pediatric patients and 6.19 in adult patients with CF.
Should CF patients be screened for sleep apnea?▼
Yes, the findings advocate for earlier polysomnography screening in CF patients to facilitate timely intervention.
References
- 1.Zeng J, Yu H, Liu J, Jiang J, Li J, He J. “The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome in patients with cystic fibrosis: An updated systematic review and meta-analysismeta-analysis..” Medicine, 2026. PMID: 42470026 DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000049828