Sleep apnea linked to higher risk of dementia in ageing adults, especially women

A new study from the University of Michigan Medical School suggests that sleep apnea may contribute to the risk of dementia - and disproportionately affect women.
The study, which analyzed data from more than 18,500 adults aged 50 and older, found that individuals with known or suspected obstructive sleep apnea were more likely to develop dementia.
Although the difference in dementia diagnosis never exceeded 5%, the association remained significant even after researchers accounted for a variety of factors, including race and education, the McKnights Long Term Care News website reports.
Remarkably, women with this sleep-related respiratory disorder consistently showed higher rates of dementia diagnosis than men across all age groups.
The gender gap widens with age as rates of dementia decrease among men but increase among women. The researchers offer several potential explanations for these gender differences.
Women with moderate sleep apnea may be at greater risk for cardiovascular disease and more likely to suffer from insomnia, both of which can negatively affect cognitive function.
In addition, changes in estrogen levels after menopause can affect brain function and memory, potentially exacerbating the effects of sleep disorders.
The findings are particularly significant given that although it is estimated that 30 million Americans have sleep apnea, only 20% of them have received a formal diagnosis. This significant gap in diagnosis and treatment may have serious implications for long-term cognitive health.
Dr. Tiffany J. Brailey, lead author of the study and a neurologist at the University of Michigan Health System, emphasizes that sleep apnea can cause inflammatory changes in the brain that can contribute to cognitive impairment.
The research team also notes that women face additional risk factors, as postmenopausal changes may increase sleep apnea cases while remaining underdiagnosed.
While the study cannot conclusively prove that sleep apnea causes dementia, the findings provide valuable insights for healthcare providers and patients when considering testing and treatment options for this sleep-related respiratory disorder. | BGNES