Objective Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA); is a leading sleep disorder that is disproportionately more prevalent in minority populations and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality. OSA is associated with many chronic conditions including hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, all of which disproportionately burden blacks (i.e., peoples of African American, Caribbean, or African descent). Methods This article will review studies conducted in the U.S. that examined sleep screenings and adherence to treatment for obstructive sleep apnea among blacks. In addition, we provide guidelines for implementing a practical framework to increase OSA screening and management among blacks. Results Several studies have documented racial/ethnic disparities in adherence to treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. However, despite its public health significance, there is a paucity of studies addressing these disparities. Further, there is a lack of health programs and policies to increase screening and treatment of OSA among blacks and other minority populations. A practical framework to increase the number of blacks who are screened for OSA and treated appropriately is warranted. Such a framework is timely and is of major importance, as early identification of OSA in this high-risk population could potentially lead to early treatment and prevention of CVD, thereby reducing racial and ethnic disparities in sleep-related CVD morbidity and mortality.

Introduction-Identification of risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is important to enable comprehensive intervention to reduce OSA-related cardiovascular disease (CVD). The metabolic syndrome outcome study (MetSO) provides a unique opportunity to address these factors. This study investigated risk of OSA among blacks with metabolic syndrome.