From the ArcaMax Publishing, Health & Fitness Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/healthtips/s-564160-464320
SEATTLE (UPI) -- U.S. researchers say they have found a link between
weight gain and the sleep disorder obstructive sleep apnea.
Study lead author Dr. Mark Brown of the University of Arizona College
of Medicine in Tucson says people suffering from more severe
obstructive sleep apnea may be more likely to gain more weight over
time than those with less severe apnea.
"Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by decreases or
cessation of breathing during sleep. Obesity is a known risk factor
for the disorder; however, it is hypothesized that the effects of
obstructive sleep apnea itself may predispose patients to weight
gain," Brown said in a statement.
The researchers measured the severity of the disease using the
apnea-hypopnea index based on the total number of complete breathing
cessations -- apnea -- and partial obstructions -- hypopnea. They
found those with an apnea-hypopnea index of more than 15 were more
likely to have a greater body mass index than those with an index
between 5 and 15.
The study included data from 3,001 men and women. The final model used
for calculations in the study was adjusted for age, gender, race,
initial body mass index and change in apnea-hypopnea index over five
years.
The findings were presented at Sleep, the annual meeting of the
Associated Professional Sleep Societies in Seattle.