Cancer is the second leading cause of death among adults in the United States. In some cases, cancer is unavoidable; it occurs due to genetics or uncontrollable environmental factors. In other instances, though, cancer may be the result of modifiable risk factors. Research indicates that sleep apnea might be one of those factors, particularly in women. Continue reading below to learn more about this important connection.
Cancer Is More Common in Women with Sleep Apnea
A study published in 2019 collected data from almost 20,000 adults with sleep apnea. The researchers discovered that around 2% of the patients had serious cancer. However, there was a significant variation in the distribution of the cancer between males and females. Whereas only 1.7% of the men had cancer, 2.8% of the women had it. Also noteworthy is the fact that most of the individuals with cancer were over 50 years of age.
Throughout the years, other studies have also noted a correlation between sleep apnea and cancer.
Does Sleep Apnea Cause Cancer?
No research indicates that sleep apnea directly causes cancer. However, some experts do believe that the intermittent oxygen deprivation caused by sleep apnea may adversely affect the immune system, which could make sleep apnea sufferers more vulnerable to cancer over time.
Another theory behind the connection between cancer and sleep apnea boils down to common risk factors. For example, both sleep apnea and cancer are more common in obese individuals, those who smoke cigarettes, and those who are up in years.
The unique hormonal makeup of women may partially explain why the relationship between sleep apnea and cancer is stronger among biological females.
What Can You Do?
There is not yet sufficient research to suggest that sleep apnea treatment can directly reduce cancer risk. However, since poor quality sleep is so strongly connected with the development of cancer, it is certainly worth the time and effort it takes to get enough rest every night! Here are some practical steps that may help you enjoy better sleep:
- Seek a sleep apnea diagnosis if you are experiencing symptoms. Snoring, exhaustion, and other symptoms of sleep apnea should not be ignored. After you receive a diagnosis, you can consider treatment options. Many people find that oral appliance therapy from a dentist is very effective.
- Talk to your doctor about the quality of your sleep. Hormonal changes or other issues can greatly affect how well women sleep.
- Practice good sleep hygiene. A regular bedtime, a comfortable mattress, and a relaxing nighttime routine can promote high-quality sleep.
Poor-quality sleep can wreck your health. It might even increase your cancer risk! Protect yourself by trying to get adequate high-quality rest each night.
Meet the Practice
At Healthy Sleep Tulsa, we are proud to be home to three talented female sleep dentists, all of whom are passionate about women’s health. If you are concerned about the quality of your nightly rest, our team would be pleased to consult with you. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, contact our office at 918-300-4325.