In a recent study, new findings revealed a significant association between untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
The study suggests that those who do not receive appropriate treatment may be twice as likely to be diagnosed.
It is suggested that the use of continuous positive airway pressure CPAP may help mitigate this risk of Parkinson’s disease by improving sleep quality and maintaining consistent airflow throughout the night.
The study published in JAMA Neurology analyzed the electronic health records of more than 11 million U.S. veterans.
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease that affects nearly one million people in the United States. It has been observed that the risks of developing the disease begin gradually after the age of 60.
New developments have demonstrated that long-term obstructive sleep apnea may contribute to a higher risk of Parkinson’s disease.
Crucial confounding factors, such as obesity, age and high blood pressure, were analyzed by the researchers to establish a clear association between untreated sleep apnea and Parkinson’s disease.
The study showed that among the millions of veterans with sleep apnea, those who did not use CPAP were nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
How does sleep apnea affect the brain?
Sleep apnea primarily occurs when a person’s breathing sporadically stops and starts again during sleep, which can prevent the body from getting enough oxygen.
In this regard, lead author Lee Neilson, MD, assistant professor of neurology at OHSU and neurologist at the Portland VA, said: “If you stop breathing and the oxygen is not at a normal level, your neurons are probably not functioning at a normal level. »
The research findings further reinforce the importance of prioritizing sleep health, specifically in light of the risk of Parkinson’s disease revealed in the study.
This further implies that some people with sleep apnea are reluctant to use CPAP, but the study further highlights that many veterans have very positive experiences with the device.
Veterans who have had positive results tell others to feel better.
The current study provides a significant clinical implication that treatment of sleep apnea not only improves sleep, but is a necessary intervention for potential protection of long-term neurological health.
