Heavy Snoring Is An Independent Risk Factor For Carotid Atherosclerosis

A new study shows that objectively measured heavy snoring is an independent risk factor for early carotid atherosclerosis, which may progress to be associated with stroke.

In a study of 110 adults, the prevalence of carotid atherosclerosis was 20 percent with mild snoring, 32 percent with moderate snoring and 64 percent with heavy snoring.

After adjustment for age, gender, smoking history and hypertension, heavy snoring was significantly associated with carotid atherosclerosis.

“Heavy snorers may be at risk for the development of carotid atherosclerosis, which is the leading cause of stroke,” said lead author and study coordinator Sharon Lee. “Heavy snorers…should have a review of all their risk factors for vascular disease.”

The study is the first to objectively measure and quantify snoring, rather than using a questionnaire, to explore the association between sleep-disordered breathing and carotid atherosclerosis.

According to Lee, the high prevalence of snoring in the community means that these findings have substantial public health implications for the management of carotid atherosclerosis and the prevention of stroke.

Read more at ScienceDaily