Unraveling the bidirectional links between obstructive sleep apnea and mild cognitive impairment: A systematic review

Yan Ren1, Shanping Chen1, Hongping Wang2

  • 1Geriatric Diseases Institute of Chengdu, Department of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Affiliated Fifth People's Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Chengdu, 611137, China.

Sleep Medicine
|May 18, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to a higher prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Early OSA screening may help reduce cognitive decline in affected individuals.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Gerontology

Background:

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a transitional stage between normal cognitive aging and dementia.
  • Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is increasingly recognized as a potential risk factor contributing to MCI development.
  • Understanding the interplay between OSA and MCI is crucial for effective early intervention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review and quantify the prevalence of MCI in individuals diagnosed with OSA.
  • To investigate the prevalence of OSA among individuals experiencing MCI.
  • To explore the bidirectional relationship and association between OSA and MCI.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature search was performed across major databases (Cochrane Library, PubMed, Ovid, Embase, Web of Science) up to May 30, 2024.
  • Included studies reported prevalence data for MCI and/or OSA.
  • Statistical analyses, including pooled prevalence and odds ratio (OR) calculations, were conducted using a random-effects model in R, with subgroup and sensitivity analyses to address heterogeneity.

Main Results:

  • The meta-analysis included 22 studies with 73,733 participants.
  • The pooled prevalence of co-occurring OSA and MCI was 20% (95% CI: 10%-30%).
  • Prevalence of MCI among OSA patients was 39% (95% CI: 24%-53%), and OSA prevalence in MCI patients was 39% (95% CI: 23%-55%).
  • An overall odds ratio of 1.65 (95% CI: 1.39-1.96) indicated a significant association between OSA and MCI.

Conclusions:

  • This meta-analysis confirms a high prevalence of co-occurring OSA and MCI, establishing a significant association.
  • The findings emphasize the critical need for early screening and timely intervention for OSA.
  • Proactive management of OSA may play a vital role in mitigating cognitive decline and preventing progression to dementia.

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