A cognitive-behavioral weight reduction program in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome with or without initial nasal CPAP: a randomized study.

Background And Purpose: To evaluate (a) whether an active weight reduction strategy based on the cognitive-behavioral approach and an initial very-low-calorie diet might lead to short- and long-term weight loss and alleviation of OSAS; and (b) whether the results of this intervention could be enhanced by combining it with nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment during the first 6 months.

Patients And Methods: Thirty-one obese male symptomatic sleep apnea patients underwent a 2-year weight reduction program with total follow-up of 36 months from baseline. The mean age (+/-SD) was 49.