Do you, or someone you love snore excessively or even stop breathing for seconds at a time while asleep? It could be obstructive sleep apnea, also called OSA, and that would mean a significantly increased risk for premature death. A recent study published in BMJ Open Respiratory Research found OSA to be a major factor in all-cause sudden death and cardiovascular-related mortality, resulting in risk twice as high as that of people without OSA.

The analysis was based on information from over 42,000 patients.

Additional research from France and the Netherlands, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, suggests that people with OSA are at increased risk for accelerated vascular aging, which causes cardiovascular disease and premature deaths.

In addition, researchers have found that folks with OSA have a significantly increased risk of COVID hospitalization and complications.

If you think that you or someone you love might have OSA, talk to your family physician or a sleep specialist. It could be a life-saving discussion.

Also, you could review the STOP-BANG screening tool to easily assess your or your loved one’s risk for OSA.

© Copyright WLL, INC. 2021. This blog provides a wide variety of general health information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your regular physician. If you are concerned about your health, take what you learn from this blog and meet with your personal doctor to discuss your concerns.