- Study reveals heightened sleep apnea risk in cancer patients, stressing cardiovascular concerns.
- STOP-BANG questionnaire highlights significant sleep apnea prevalence in both general and cardio-oncology populations.
- Untreated sleep apnea correlates with abnormal heart function, underscoring the importance of early intervention during cancer therapy.
A recent study presented at the American College of Cardiology reveals a concerning trend: sleep apnea prevalence is notably high among cardio-oncology patients, posing an increased risk of heart failure following cancer treatment. Utilizing the STOP-BANG questionnaire, researchers identified significant rates of sleep apnea in both general cardiology and cardio-oncology populations, shedding light on a critical aspect of cardiovascular health in cancer care.
The study, which assessed sleep apnea prevalence in 296 general cardiology patients and 218 cardio-oncology patients, underscores the importance of routine assessment in individuals undergoing cancer therapy. Notably, untreated sleep apnea or those at high risk are associated with abnormal left ventricular strain, indicating a potential link between sleep-disordered breathing and adverse cardiac events in this vulnerable population.
The findings suggest a need for integrating sleep apnea assessment into standard risk evaluation protocols for cancer therapy recipients. By recognizing and addressing sleep apnea in cardio-oncology patients, healthcare providers can better mitigate heart failure risks and optimize cardiovascular outcomes in this high-risk population.
