Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of mortality globally, particularly among individuals with both obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS). These two conditions exacerbate each other, creating a vicious cycle that increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Understanding the pathophysiological relationship between OSA and MetS is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.
This review explores current knowledge on the connection between OSA and MetS and discusses the progress in treatment options. Concepts and epidemiology of OSA and MetS OSA is characterized by repeated upper airway collapse during sleep, leading to intermittent hypoxia and fragmented sleep patterns. Affecting 14% of the global population, OSA is more prevalent among adults aged 30–69.
Symptoms include daytime sleepiness, memory issues, and headaches, significantly reducing patients' quality of life. MetS is a cluster of metabolic abnormalities that include central obesity, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. The prevalence of MetS is estimated at 24% in the U.
S., with obesity being a key contributing factor. The relationship between OSA and MetS OSA and MetS share common risk factors like obesity and aging, and they often coexist.
Studies show that patients with severe OSA are more likely to have MetS, and vice versa. The bidirectional nature of their relationship suggests that these conditions reinforce each other, furthe.
