Treatable Sleep Disorder Common in People with Thinking and Memory Problems

EMBARGOED FOR RELEASE UNTIL 4 P.M. ET, SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2021

 

Newswise — MINNEAPOLIS – Obstructive sleep apnea is when breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. Research has shown people with this sleep disorder have an increased risk of developing cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. Yet, it is treatable. A preliminary study released today, February 28, 2021, has found that obstructive sleep apnea is common in people with cognitive impairment. The study will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology’s 73rd Annual Meeting being held virtually April 17 to 22, 2021.

Cognitive impairment includes memory and thinking problems that affect concentration, decision making and learning new things. The risk of cognitive impairment increases as people age.

“Better sleep is beneficial to the brain and can improve cognitive skills. Yet in our…

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