Coping strategies for obese individuals with obstructive sleep apnea during COVID-19 pandemic: A narrative review

BACKGROUND: Patients infected with SARS-CoV-2- having pre-existing non-communicable diseases (NCDs)- are at a higher risk of complications. Obesity is one of the proven risk factors causing NCDs and can influence outcomes of COVID-19 patients. It is closely related to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The increased risk of COVID-19 and reduced access to treatment of non-COVID conditions during the pandemic may increase the stress in obese patients with OSA. This situation makes it necessary for them to cope with their condition by themselves. This review aimed at the effect of this pandemic on these patients and coping strategies for them. METHODS: Databases like PubMed and Scopus were searched using a combination of key words. Full-text articles meeting the inclusion criteria were selected. RESULTS: The search yielded eight studies, discussing about the potential interactions between the COVID-19, obesity and OSA, the impact of COVID-19 on them, and management of these patients. CONCLUSIONS: Increased prevalence of COVID-19 was found among obese patients with OSA. The fear of COVID-19 and shift of health care workers to manage COVID-19 patients has affected their regular visits to the hospital. However, there is lack of coping strategies for them, which should soon be established for these patients.