Adherence to Sleep Therapies in Children and Adolescents

Sleep Med Clin. 2021 Mar;16(1):11-21. doi: 10.1016/j.jsmc.2020.10.002. Epub 2020 Dec 9.

Abstract

Improved recognition of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children has led many to identify effective strategies to treat pediatric OSA. Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy in children, which has been shown to resolve OSA, is highly contingent on adequate adherence. In pediatrics, adherence is complex, related largely to the influence of age. Consequently, reported adherence rates in children are often lower than adults. Notwithstanding, studies have identified significant risk factors, some modifiable, and several intervention strategies that may improve pediatric adherence. Close follow-up, including use of cloud-based monitoring, of children using PAP therapy may optimize adherence further.

Keywords: Adherence; Obstructive sleep apnea; Pediatric sleep-disordered breathing; Positive airway pressure.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure*
  • Humans
  • Patient Compliance / statistics & numerical data*
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / therapy*