SLEEP

SLEEP 2025: Patients and providers split on sleep apnea treatment preferences

June 10, 2025

A national survey revealed a notable disconnect between patients and providers regarding treatment preferences for comorbid obesity and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). While both groups viewed CPAP and tirzepatide as acceptable options, patients favored tirzepatide if efficacy was equal (48% vs. 35%), whereas providers preferred CPAP (53% vs. 26%). Support for combination therapy was high overall but stronger among providers (88%) than patients (61%). The study, which will be presented at SLEEP 2025, included 365 patients and 17 sleep medicine professionals, with over half of patients having comorbid OSA and obesity. Most had prior experience with CPAP (78%), and some had used GLP-1 therapies (23%). Researchers say these findings highlight the importance of shared decision-making and the need for real-world comparative data to guide treatment strategies. Aligning patient and provider expectations may improve adherence and outcomes in this growing patient population.

Sources:

Khalaf, A, et al. (2025, June 11). 0787 The Treatment Preferences for Comorbid Obesity and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (PRO-CON OSA) Survey. Presented at SLEEP 2025 Annual Meeting, Seattle, WA.

(2025, June 2). SLEEP 2025. Comorbid obesity and sleep apnea treatment preferences differ among patients and providers. [News release]. https://www.sleepmeeting.org/comorbid-obesity-and-sleep-apnea-treatment-preferences-differ-among-patients-and-providers/