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, its 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 its 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
