A significant study has found a strong correlation between untreated sleep apnea and an elevated likelihood of developing Parkinson’s disease.
Researchers from the Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) analyzed data from over 11 million veterans aged 40 and older who did not initially have Parkinson’s. The study observed that veterans with untreated sleep apnea were nearly twice as likely to develop Parkinson’s compared to those without the condition. Among those who began CPAP therapy within two years of their diagnosis, the risk was reduced by about 30%. Dr. Greg Scott, a co-author of the study, noted that individuals on CPAP had fewer fractures, falls, and lower mortality rates, highlighting potential protective effects.
The research, published in *JAMA Neurology*, draws on extensive data from U.S. veterans and adjusts for various health factors. While the findings suggest a link between sleep apnea and Parkinson’s, the study emphasizes that causation has not been definitively proven and notes potential limitations, including the lack of details on CPAP adherence and the predominantly male, older participant pool.
Researchers propose several potential reasons for this link. Repeated drops in oxygen during sleep can damage neurons, increase inflammation, and interfere with the brain’s ability to clear out waste, allowing toxic proteins to accumulate. Dr. Lee Neilson, OHSU neurologist and lead author of the study, explained, “If you stop breathing several times an hour and your oxygen levels are dropping… you’re essentially stunning those brain cells every time that is happening.” By stabilizing oxygen and improving sleep continuity, scientists believe CPAP may reduce these stresses and protect brain tissue over time.
The study’s authors emphasized that their findings only show an association between the sleep disorder and neurological disease. Because this was an observational analysis, it cannot definitively prove that sleep apnea causes Parkinson’s. The team also pointed out that early signs of Parkinson’s, including sleep disturbances, might have led to some individuals being diagnosed with apnea in the first place.
Additional limitations include the lack of detailed data on how consistently participants used their CPAP devices and the fact that most veterans in the study were older men, which means the results may not be generalizable to other populations. Researchers noted that while the study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to validate these findings and explore potential interventions for at-risk individuals.