Sleep Apnea Linked to Higher Risk of Heart Events and Death, Study Finds

NEW DELHI — People with obstructive sleep apnea face a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular events and death from any cause, according to new research to be presented at the European Congress on Obesity.

The study found that individuals with the condition have a 71 percent higher risk of cardiovascular events or all-cause mortality compared with those without obstructive sleep apnea.

“In adults, obstructive sleep apnea is linked to higher risk of cardiovascular events or all-cause mortality, especially among those with obesity, even after adjusting for confounders,” said Heather Fitzke of Imperial College Health Partners, a co-author of the study.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition marked by repeated blockage of the upper airway during sleep, leading to disrupted rest and increased strain on the cardiovascular system.

Researchers analyzed electronic health records from 2.9 million individuals, identifying 20,300 people diagnosed with sleep apnea and comparing them with 97,412 matched individuals without the condition.

Among those with sleep apnea, 57.2 percent were living with obesity, compared with 56.7 percent in the control group. Obesity is known to increase both the likelihood and severity of the condition, with estimates suggesting that between 40 percent and 70 percent of people with sleep apnea are overweight or obese.

The findings showed that people with sleep apnea had a markedly higher risk of experiencing cardiovascular events or dying from any cause than those without the disorder.

The researchers said the results highlight the importance of early diagnosis and effective management of both sleep apnea and obesity to reduce long-term health risks.

The study is one of the largest matched case-control analyses of obstructive sleep apnea conducted outside the United States, according to the authors. (Source: IANS)