Knowledge, attitude and perceived barriers in the practical approach of obstructive sleep apnea management

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a clinical disorder affecting almost 1 billion people globally. Untreated OSA can cause severe medical problems. Present cross-sectional study was conducted amongst 106 dentists. Convenient sampling method was used and predesigned domain-based questionnaire was employed to gather the data.Data was entered and analyzed with Epi Info software (CDC, Atlanta). Measures of central tendency was used to present the data.Most of the respondents were female 69 (65.1%) and 37(34.9%) were male. Out of total participants 81% were general dental practioners whereas orthodontics and consultants accounted for 19%. OSA though highly prevalent amongst the general population but remains highly undiagnosed. Most common perceived barrier was lack of training and cost in the management of OSA.