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New findings underscore the importance of early intervention in high-risk population
Sleep apnea, a common breathing disorder during sleep, poses significant health risks, especially for individuals undergoing cancer therapy. A recent study presented at the American College of Cardiology (ACC) sheds light on the prevalence of sleep apnea among cardio-oncology patients, highlighting the urgent need for proactive intervention to mitigate cardiovascular complications.
Conducted by researchers led by Mini K. Das, MD, medical director of the cardio-oncology program at Baptist Health in Louisville, the study evaluated the occurrence of sleep apnea among 296 general cardiology patients and 218 cardio-oncology patients. Sleep apnea, categorized as obstructive (OSA) or central (CSA), was assessed using a specialized questionnaire, with data collected on traditional risk factors and STOP-BANG scores.
The findings revealed a notable disparity in the prevalence of sleep apnea between the two groups, with 54 per cent occurrence in general cardiology patients and 39 per cent in cardio-oncology patients. These rates align closely with those observed in patients with heart failure, underscoring the significance of sleep apnea as a critical risk factor for adverse cardiovascular events.
Dr. Das emphasized the implications of these findings, noting the potential for early intervention in mitigating the heightened risk of congestive heart failure associated with cancer therapy. The study also highlighted the link between untreated sleep apnea and abnormal left ventricular strain, a key echo parameter indicative of adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
“Identifying these individuals may allow early intervention in a risk factor clearly associated with heart failure now recognized to affect cancer therapy and survivorship,” Dr. Das stated, emphasizing the importance of integrating sleep apnea assessment into current risk algorithms.
Furthermore, the study underscores the need for larger-scale investigations to evaluate the impact of sleep apnea on the cardio-oncology patient population comprehensively. By incorporating sleep apnea screening into routine clinical assessments, healthcare providers can identify at-risk individuals early and implement targeted interventions to enhance cardiovascular health and improve patient outcomes.
As the medical community continues to unravel the intricate relationship between sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease, Dr. Das advocates for a proactive approach to addressing this critical health concern, emphasizing the potential for early intervention to transform the landscape of cardio-oncology care.
