Is There a Link Between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Cancer?
Recent research has suggested a potential link between OSA and increased cancer risk. Hypoxia (reduced oxygen levels) and fragmented sleep caused by OSA may contribute to an environment conducive to cancer development. Chronic intermittent hypoxia has been shown to promote tumor growth and metastasis in animal models. Additionally, inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are elevated in OSA, are known to play roles in cancer progression.