COVID-19 Linked to Increased Risk of New-Onset Sleep Apnea, Study Finds
A study published in Scientific Reports has analyzed electronic health records from the Montefiore Health System (covering 910,393 individuals) to assess the link between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the development of new-onset obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Key Findings
COVID-19 patients, whether hospitalized or not, had a significantly higher risk of developing OSA compared to individuals who tested negative. The adjusted hazard ratios were 1.41 for hospitalized patients and 1.33 for non-hospitalized patients.
This association remained strong even after adjusting for comorbidities and vaccination status, and similar findings were observed in a historical control cohort.
Among those who developed OSA:
- Hospitalized COVID patients showed a higher risk of subsequent pulmonary hypertension and heart failure.
- Non-hospitalized patients had a higher risk of developing obesity.
Stronger associations were found in specific subgroups:
- Among hospitalized patients: Black individuals, those under age 60, and people with asthma.
- Among non-hospitalized patients: Females, Hispanic individuals, and those with major comorbidities.
Study Details
- Cohort: Adults tested for SARS-CoV-2 between March 2020 and August 2024.
- OSA Diagnosis: Based on ICD-10 codes (not objective sleep testing).
- Follow-up: Until OSA diagnosis, last visit, or death (up to 4.5 years).
- Statistical Methods: Cox regression with inverse probability weighting.
Conclusions
The study shows an association, not causation. However, the findings suggest that clinicians should consider targeted OSA screening in high-risk individuals with a history of COVID-19. Future research should incorporate objective sleep assessments and explore the underlying biological mechanisms.