Exercise And Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Research shows that living an active lifestyle can lower the risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) - a common sleep disorder where the upper airways collapse during sleep resulting in airflow blockage.

A study looked at the associations between physical activity, sedentary time, and diagnoses of obstructive sleep apnea in 130,000 male and female participants. Over a 10-18 year period, it was found that the associations were strongest in women, adults over the age of 65 and those whose BMI classified as overweight or obese.

The findings highlight the benefits of physical activity in lowering the risk of obstructive sleep apnea. People with severe forms of the condition are at risk of cardiovascular problems, diabetes, stroke and obesity. If you or a loved one are concerned about your sleep health, speak with your family doctor about a diagnostic Sleep study.