Facilitators and barriers for eating behavior change in individuals with obstructive sleep apnea and obesity.

Abstract: Abstract Background: Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is prevalent and the syndrome is associated with increased risk of health related problems. A positive effect of behavioral change programs to reduce weight is expected. More research is needed to identify barriers and facilitators to behavior change. Aim: To identify prerequisites for eating behavior change in obese patients with OSAS. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted on 15 obese patients living with OSAS. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Result: The categories identified as barriers to change in eating behavior in the analysis were desire and craving, influenced by mental state, low self-confidence, insufficient support, social acceptance, complexity of coping with new eating behaviors in daily routines, costs, lack of knowledge, perceived helplessness and low susceptibility. Categories that were identified as facilitators to change in eating behavior were high value of outcome expectations, support and control, external premises, applicable behavior change strategies, self-worth and being triggered by weight increase. Conclusion: To motivate patients living with OSAS to change their eating behavior it is necessary to address both barriers and facilitators. The categories low susceptibility as a barrier and high value of outcome expectations as a facilitator appears to be important for this patient group.