Risk Assessment of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Symptoms and Its Correlation with Oral Manifestations: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder seen in all age groups. The aetiology is multifactorial, including factors such as obesity, aging, stress, and a sedentary lifestyle. Poor knowledge about diagnostic options, management, and consequences of improper treatment may contribute to morbidity and mortality. Berlin Questionnaires (BQ) are simple, low-cost, non-invasive tools that can be used to assess the risk of OSA. Screening subjects using questionnaires and oral examinations for a multidisciplinary approach to treat OSA is essential. Aim: To assess the risk of OSA symptoms and their association with oral manifestations among students. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students aged between 18 and 24 years. Three hundred medical students (171 males, 129 females) willing to participate in the study were included. Responses to the Berlin and oral health questionnaires were collected, and oral examinations were performed. Statistical analysis was conducted using Epi Info software. Kruskal-Wallis H test and one-way Analysis Of Variance (ANOVA) were carried out to evaluate significance in different groups and to examine associations between OSA, oral health, and other variables. Results: The collected data were statistically analysed. In the present study, 35 subjects (11.67%) were classified as highrisk and 265 subjects (88.33%) as low-risk by the BQ. The prevalence of OSA in the present study was 12.87% in males and 10.08% in females. High-risk subjects were educated, motivated, and referred for confirmatory diagnostic tests and early treatment. Conclusion: The prevalence of OSA in the present study was 12.87% in males and 10.08% in females. Emphasis should be placed on highlighting the clinical aspects related to OSA and its relation to oral health. There is a great need to educate and motivate dental and medical students and professionals about OSA by conducting health education programs.