The most likely age group to experience obstructive sleep apnea is middle-aged adults. This condition is often linked to various factors prevalent in this demographic, including higher rates of obesity, which significantly contributes to the development of obstructive sleep apnea by increasing upper airway resistance during sleep. Middle-aged individuals may also deal with physiological changes such as decreased muscle tone and altered sleep architecture, which can further exacerbate the risk of sleep apnea.
Additionally, menopause in women can lead to increased fat deposition in the neck area and changes in body composition, elevating the risk during this age. There is also evidence suggesting that sleep apnea is underdiagnosed in younger individuals, especially in children and young adults, compared to the more established prevalence observed in middle-aged populations. While the elderly also face specific risks for sleep apnea, such as an increased likelihood of comorbid conditions, the peak incidence is more prominently found within the middle-aged group.