Obstructive sleep apnoea and Type 2 diabetes mellitus: are they connected?

Area of Science:

• Sleep Medicine
• Endocrinology
• Cardiology

Background:

• Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are prevalent conditions often sharing obesity as a risk factor.
• Both OSA and DM are independently associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• The pathophysiological connection between OSA and DM is not fully understood, with intermittent hypoxia proposed as a potential mechanism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the relationship between obstructive sleep apnoea and diabetes mellitus.
• To highlight the need for increased awareness regarding the potential link between these two conditions.
• To discuss current management strategies for OSA and DM.

Main Methods:

• Diagnosis of OSA relies on the apnoea-hypopnea index from sleep studies and symptom assessment.
• The study reviews existing knowledge on the shared risk factors and potential pathophysiological links between OSA and DM.
• Management strategies for both conditions are discussed, including continuous positive airway pressure for OSA and lifestyle modifications for both.

Main Results:

• Obesity is a significant shared risk factor for OSA and DM, contributing to cardiovascular disease risk.
• Intermittent hypoxia is a potential mechanism linking OSA and DM.
• There is insufficient evidence to recommend routine screening for OSA in all diabetic patients.

Conclusions:

• Increased awareness of the OSA-DM link is necessary due to their rising prevalence.
• Holistic management involving lifestyle changes is crucial for patients with either condition.
• Diabetic patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of OSA should be evaluated by a sleep specialist.