RESUMO
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of rapid eye movement-related obstructive sleep apnea (REMrOSA) using common definitions. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study that used three sets of criteria to identify patients with REMrOSA. These criteria were defined as strict, intermediate, and lenient depending on the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), AHI during REM sleep/(AHI during non-REM sleep [NREM-AHI]), NREM-AHI and REM duration. RESULTS: The study included 609 patients with OSA and full sleep study. The prevalence of REMrOSA was 26%, 33%, and 52% using the strict, intermediate, and lenient criteria, respectively. There were no differences in the patients' general and demographic characteristics between the different groups of the three definitions. REMrOSA patients were more likely to be younger females than non-REMrOSA (NREMrOSA) patients. Comorbidities were more frequent in the REMrOSA group compared to NREMrOSA when using strict and intermediate definitions. In contrast, AHI, mean O2 saturation, and time spent <90% O2 saturation were significantly worse during NREMrOSA compared to REMrOSA, regardless of the criteria used. Our study reported higher AHI, lower mean oxygen saturation, lower minimum oxygen saturation, and longer time of desaturation during REMrOSA when lenient definition was used compared to when strict and intermediate definitions were used. CONCLUSIONS: REMrOSA is a common condition with a prevalence ranging between 26% and 52% depending on what definition is applied. Although OSA tends to be more severe with lenient definition, however, the clinical and polysomnographic features were similar among REMrOSA groups regardless of the definition used.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 19 is a pandemic affecting millions worldwide. Since February 2020, new cases are reported in Saudi Arabia, and regulations have been imposed to control the spread of the disease and raise awareness. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes of the Kingdom's residents toward coronavirus disease 19 during the early stages of the pandemic. METHOD: A cross-sectional study of 2071 participants who were recruited from various cities in Saudi Arabia. An online questionnaire was shared through social media, which contained questions about demographic data, general knowledge of coronavirus disease 19, and participants' attitudes. RESULTS: The mean age of the study population was 34 ± 12.4 years. Most of the participants agreed that coronavirus disease 19 is a pandemic and is more serious than seasonal influenza. More than 90% believed that handwashing and social distancing are effective in preventing disease transmission. No significant results were observed when comparing the knowledge of high-risk participants and the normal population. More than half of the cohort were strictly compliant with curfew regulations, handwashing, and face mask. Around 80% of the population is following coronavirus disease 19 news and information through official authorities' press releases. CONCLUSION: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia residents showed decent knowledge of coronavirus disease 19. Nevertheless, some information needs emphasizing and proper education. Frequent communication between healthcare authorities and the public is highly recommended.
