Sleep Apnea in Later Life More Than Doubles Subsequent Alzheimer’s Risk

Key clinical point: Patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea after age 65 may be at increased risk of later developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Major finding: A dose-response effect was seen: obstructive sleep apnea classified as mild was associated with a 1.67-fold increased risk of subsequent Alzheimer’s disease, moderate with a 1.81-fold risk, and severe obstructive sleep apnea carried a 2.63-fold increased risk.

Data source: This was a retrospective cohort study including 756 patients age 65 or older with no history of cognitive impairment who were diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea during 2001-2005 and 3,780 matched controls, all followed for up to 13 years.

Disclosures: The study was supported by the Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute. The presenter reported having no financial conflicts.