The extent of weight reduction required to potentially discontinue continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a variable outcome dependent on individual physiology and the severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). While there isn’t a universally applicable numerical threshold, clinically significant weight loss often correlates with improvements in OSA metrics, potentially leading to reduced reliance on CPAP. For example, an individual with moderate OSA might find symptom relief with a 10% reduction in body weight, whereas someone with severe OSA may require a more substantial decrease.
Achieving a healthier weight offers numerous benefits beyond potentially mitigating the need for CPAP. Improved cardiovascular health, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, and enhanced overall well-being are frequently associated with weight management. Historically, lifestyle interventions focused on weight loss have been recognized as a cornerstone in managing OSA, often predating the widespread adoption of CPAP as the primary treatment.
