U.S. Army Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Oral Appliance Therapy Survey: A Qualitative Analysis of Comments
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Objectives: The purpose of this study is to describe U.S. Army soldiers’ comments regarding obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), including effects, diagnosis, and treatment.
Methods: This is a secondary analysis of a subset of survey data received from a previous study that assessed soldiers’ self-reported impacts of OSA and the treatment oral appliance therapy (OAT). Comments provided in the survey’s text boxes were examined using an inductive approach to thematic analysis and organized into distinct, recurring categories.
Results: Thirteen percent (n=1,131) of the 8,740 survey respondents provided comments; 6 categories and the most prevalent comments in each were identified. The most common positive OAT-related comment was the same as that of the positive airway pressure (PAP) device, which described overall satisfaction with the treatment, including improved sleep quality and/or quantity. The most common negative comment related to the PAP device described it as difficult to use and/or become habituated to; the most common negative OAT-related comment described the device as uncomfortable. Excessive daytime sleepiness was the most prevalent comment related to adverse effects of OSA, and the most common recommendation was that travel-sized PAP devices should be issued.
Conclusions: Comments recounting effects of the disorder, relief (or no relief) from treatment, and adverse effects from treatment indicate OSA is a serious health concern compelling early diagnosis and improved treatment.
Clinical Implications: Considering the number and nature of comments provided, an appraisal of the current military processes and procedures for screening, diagnosis, and treatment of soldiers suffering from OSA is justified.
Keywords: obstructive sleep apnea; oral appliance therapy; Army; military; soldiers
Citation: Goodwin C, Grier T, Mahlmann O. U.S. Army Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Oral Appliance Therapy Survey: A Qualitative Analysis of Comments. J Dent Sleep Med. 2025;12(4)
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