Obstructive sleep apnea promotes cancer development and progression: a concise review

Area of Science:

• Sleep Medicine
• Oncology
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnoea-hypopnoea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep disorder associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
• OSA is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and metabolic diseases.
• Emerging evidence links OSA to a higher prevalence of cancer and cancer-related mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the relationship between OSA and cancer.
• To explore potential mechanisms by which OSA may influence cancer development and progression.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of epidemiological surveys and animal studies.
• Analysis of proposed biological pathways involved in OSA-cancer interactions.

Main Results:

• Epidemiological data indicate a higher incidence of cancer and cancer mortality in OSA patients.
• Animal studies suggest intermittent hypoxia activates HIF-1 and VEGF pathways, potentially supporting tumor growth.
• Intermittent hypoxia may also alter tumor-associated macrophages, promoting aggressive cancer behavior.

Conclusions:

• The association between OSA and cancer is confirmed, with higher cancer prevalence and mortality in OSA patients.
• Mechanisms may involve intermittent hypoxia and sleep fragmentation activating cancer-related pathways.
• Further clinical and basic research is necessary to elucidate and confirm the OSA-cancer link.