Obstructive sleep apnea: one more target in cardiac rehabilitation

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent sleep-related breathing disorder, often unrecognized and undiagnosed, in patients with established cardiovascular diseases. Considerable evidence is now available in support of a significant association between OSA and increased risk for cardiovascular disease morbidity. OSA has also been recognised as a potential public health issue associated with societal consequences including accidents and work economics. Treatment of OSA would reduce cardiovascular risk and the overall usage of health care resources. OSA might be a modifiable risk factor and screening for OSA should be implemented in cardiac rehabilitation settings.