Weight Loss Improves Sleep Apnea in Obese Diabetics

By June Chen, MD

10/8/2009

According to a new study published in the September 28, 2009 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, weight loss should result in significant improvements in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among obese, diabetic patients.

Investigators from Sleep AHEAD study conducted a 4-center study to assess the effects of weight loss on sleep apnea over a one-year period. This study included 264 participants with type 2 diabetes and an average age of 61.2 years, an average weight of 102.4 kilograms, and moderately severe sleep apnea. These participants were randomly assigned to either a behavioral weight loss program designed specifically for obese patients with diabetes or three educational group sessions related to effective diabetes management. After one year, the investigators found that the participants who were assigned to the behavioral weight loss program lost more weight and were three times more likely to experience total remission of their sleep apnea. Participants who lost at least 10 kilograms displayed the greatest improvements in sleep apnea.
 
Based on this study, the Sleep AHEAD investigators conclude that obese diabetic patients and their physicians can expect that weight loss will result in clinical relevant improvements in sleep apnea.

Source

Arch Intern Med. 2009;169(17):1619-1626.