Sleep Apnea, Cancer Link Found In Study

Sleep apnea is the kind of problem that won’t surprise those you sleep with. Snoring is a big indicator. But there is surprising news tied to the sleeping disorder, a new study revealing a striking correlation to cancer.

The study found the rate of developing any kind of cancer is five times higher for those with sleep apnea.

Local sleep specialists said it’s important to be cautious with this information. Dr. Nathaniel Pascual, director of Nova Sleep, said the study shows an association with cancer but not a cause and effect. Pascual said he wouldn’t change any current procedures based on the study.

Sleep disorder treatment is a booming industry. Both hospitals in Colorado Springs and Pueblo have sleep disorder departments and there are several private practices in the area as well, including Pascual’s operation.

“Most patients which come to us complain about being sleepy all the time or wake up consistently at night,” said Pascual.

The doctor said most of the referrals he gets come from heart specialists who use sleep medicine as an option of dealing with cardiovascular issues.