American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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What determines the response to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment?

Patient's age
Adherence to CPAP therapy
Severity of OSA
Body mass index

The correct answer is: Adherence to CPAP therapy

The response to treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is significantly influenced by adherence to CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy. CPAP is considered the gold standard treatment for OSA, and its effectiveness relies heavily on the patient's consistent use of the device during sleep. When patients faithfully adhere to CPAP therapy, they often experience significant improvements in symptoms, including daytime sleepiness, sleep quality, and overall quality of life. Even in cases where OSA severity is high or patients have other comorbid conditions, the most critical factor in achieving positive treatment outcomes remains adherence to the therapy. Non-adherence can lead to persistent symptoms and prevent patients from gaining the full benefits of the prescribed treatment, regardless of the severity of their OSA or other factors such as age or body mass index. Effective management strategies to enhance adherence may include patient education, regular follow-up, and possibly the use of alternative therapies for those unable to tolerate CPAP.