Obstructive sleep apnea and abnormal glucose metabolism

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a chronic disorder that is prevalent, especially in subjects with obesity or diabetes. OSA is related to several metabolic abnormalities, including diabetes, insulin resistance, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Although Koreans are less obese than Caucasians, the prevalence of OSA is comparable in both groups. Thus, the impact of OSA on metabolism may be similar. Many epidemiologic and experimental studies have demonstrated that OSA is associated with glucose intolerance and insulin resistance via intermittent hypoxia, sleep fragmentation, and sleep deprivation. The effect of continuous positive airway pressure treatment on glucose metabolism is still controversial. Randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the ability of OSA treatment to reduce the risk of diabetes and insulin resistance in subjects without diabetes and to ameliorate glucose control in patients with diabetes.