New Research Suggests Early Treatment of Sleep Apnea May Help Prevent Neurological Disorder
A groundbreaking study published in JAMA Neurology has found a possible link between untreated sleep apnea and the development of Parkinson's disease. Researchers analyzed data from over 11 million US veterans, discovering that those with sleep apnea were nearly twice as likely to develop Parkinson's six years after diagnosis compared to those who received treatment.
According to Dr. Gregory Scott, co-author of the study, having sleep apnea does not guarantee the development of Parkinson's, but it significantly increases the risk. On the other hand, treating sleep apnea with a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine appears to reduce the likelihood of developing the disease.
The study's lead author, Dr. Lee Neilson, suggests that intermittent breathing and reduced oxygen levels can have detrimental effects on brain function. When this occurs repeatedly over time, it may contribute to the development of neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's. The use of a CPAP machine, which blows air through a tube into a mask to keep airways open during sleep, may build resilience against such conditions.
The findings of this study highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea in preventing Parkinson's disease. With approximately 1.2 million people expected to be diagnosed with Parkinson's by 2030, finding effective preventive measures is crucial for those at risk.
A groundbreaking study published in JAMA Neurology has found a possible link between untreated sleep apnea and the development of Parkinson's disease. Researchers analyzed data from over 11 million US veterans, discovering that those with sleep apnea were nearly twice as likely to develop Parkinson's six years after diagnosis compared to those who received treatment.
According to Dr. Gregory Scott, co-author of the study, having sleep apnea does not guarantee the development of Parkinson's, but it significantly increases the risk. On the other hand, treating sleep apnea with a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine appears to reduce the likelihood of developing the disease.
The study's lead author, Dr. Lee Neilson, suggests that intermittent breathing and reduced oxygen levels can have detrimental effects on brain function. When this occurs repeatedly over time, it may contribute to the development of neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's. The use of a CPAP machine, which blows air through a tube into a mask to keep airways open during sleep, may build resilience against such conditions.
The findings of this study highlight the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea in preventing Parkinson's disease. With approximately 1.2 million people expected to be diagnosed with Parkinson's by 2030, finding effective preventive measures is crucial for those at risk.