Study Overview
A study published in the journal Sleep and Breathing examined the association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and muscle structure. Researchers analyzed data from 209 adults who underwent overnight sleep studies and chest or abdominal CT scans.
Key Findings
- Individuals with OSA had a higher skeletal muscle index (SMI) but lower skeletal muscle density (SMD) compared to a control group.
- Lower muscle density was more strongly associated with age and body mass index (BMI) than with OSA alone.
- Individuals over 60 years old and those with a BMI over 30 had stronger links to lower muscle density than OSA.
- Worse sleep apnea severity was linked to higher SMI and lower SMD.
"Age and obesity appeared to have a stronger influence on muscle health than sleep apnea itself."
Statements from Researchers
Ariel Tarasiuk, professor at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and study co-author, noted that while sleep apnea may play a role, it is unlikely to be the primary factor driving these changes. Tarasiuk emphasized the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment, including CPAP therapy, but also highlighted the role of maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active.
Expert Commentary
Dr. Wendy Troxel, clinical psychologist and senior behavioral scientist at RAND (not involved in the study), explained:
"Individuals with OSA may have more muscle mass, but that muscle may be less healthy because it contains more fat, which can impair strength and metabolic function."
She noted that the association between OSA severity and muscle quality was modest compared to known risk factors like age and BMI.
Limitations
- The study was conducted at a single center, limiting generalizability.
- Researchers did not have data on lifestyle factors such as physical activity, diet, smoking, or alcohol use.