Scientists have discovered that individuals with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) face a 71% increased risk of cardiovascular events (CVEs) or death compared to those without OSA. This new research, presented at the European Congress on Obesity, highlights the collaboration between Imperial College Health Partners, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK, and Eli Lilly and Company.
According to study co-author Heather Fitzke of Imperial College Health Partners, London, obstructive sleep apnea in adults is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events or all-cause mortality, particularly in those with obesity, even after adjusting for other factors. OSA, characterized by recurrent upper airway obstruction during sleep, is linked to poor sleep quality, reduced quality of life, and increased cardiovascular risk.
Individuals with OSA have a prevalence of obesity and overweight ranging from 40-70%, with those living with obesity more likely to experience severe OSA. The study aimed to evaluate the elevated risk of cardiovascular events or death in adults diagnosed with OSA compared to those without the condition. By analyzing electronic health records from 2.9 million residents, the study matched 20,300 individuals with OSA with 97,412 comparators.
The findings of the study revealed that individuals with OSA had a 71% higher risk of cardiovascular events or all-cause mortality compared to the matched controls without OSA. These results emphasize the importance of effective obesity management, early screening, and prompt diagnosis. Fitzke noted that this study is the largest matched case-control study of obstructive sleep apnea conducted outside the US to date.
