Diabetes Linked to Sleep Apnea
Reported June 06, 2008
(Ivanhoe Newswire) – Scientists need to spend more time studying the
possible connection between type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea.
The International Diabetes Foundation (IDF) released a statement warning recent
research demonstrates type 2 diabetes and obstructive sleep apnea are related
and cannot be ignored by doctors. They say this is an urgent call to action to
the medical community.
Research shows up to 40 percent of people with sleep apnea have diabetes. Also,
it’s likely more than half of people with type 2 diabetes suffer from some type
of sleep disorder. A final link also suggests treatment for sleep apnea known as
continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) improves insulin sensitivity in
non-obese people. The IDF says it’s now the medical communities’ responsibility
to research more closely the link between these two conditions.
The IDF strongly recommends that healthcare professionals working in both type 2
diabetes and sleep disorders are educated about the links. It also urges them to
change clinical practices ensuring that patients with one condition are asked
about the other. The IDF recommends screening, treatment and further research.
SOURCE: Presented at the American Diabetes Association 68th Annual Scientific
Sessions and in an article published in Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice | 