Sleep Apnea and Parkinson’s Disease: New Research Reveals an Important Connection

Sleep apnea is more than a nighttime breathing problem—it may also be linked to long-term brain health. A new study published in JAMA Neurology found that people diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea are significantly more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease later in life. And one key treatment may help lower that risk.
​
But what does this mean for individuals living with sleep apnea today—and how can early intervention make a difference? Keep reading to learn what researchers discovered and why it matters.

A Major Study Shows a Strong Link
Researchers analyzed over 11 million U.S. veterans treated through the Department of Veterans Affairs between 1999 and 2022. About 14% had been diagnosed with sleep apnea—primarily older men, a group already at higher risk. Six years after diagnosis, those with sleep apnea were nearly twice as likely to develop Parkinson’s disease compared to those without the condition.
​
Importantly, this increased risk remained even after accounting for other factors such as weight, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, or traumatic brain injury.

CPAP Treatment Shows Promise
The study also revealed encouraging news:
Veterans who began using a CPAP machine within two years of being diagnosed were about 30% less likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than those who didn’t.
​
A CPAP machine keeps the airway open during sleep, preventing the repeated drops in oxygen that characterize sleep apnea. Although many people find CPAP therapy uncomfortable at first, consistent use appears to play a protective role in long-term neurological health.

What Might Be the Connection?
Scientists don’t yet know why sleep apnea may increase the risk of Parkinson’s. However, researchers suggested a few possibilities:

• Reduced oxygen to the brain over time may damage vulnerable brain cells.
• Sleep apnea may interfere with the brain’s glymphatic “waste removal” system, which works mostly during sleep.
• Disrupted sleep patterns may worsen inflammation and cellular stress in the brain.

More studies are needed, but many experts agree that it makes biological sense: a condition that repeatedly limits oxygen at night could contribute to neurological change over decades.

Why Support Matters
A diagnosis of any form of Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming. But with the right support and resources, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being.
For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s and related conditions, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.
​
For over 25 years, PASWFL has offered more than 25 free weekly programs, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech exercise classes
• Educational seminars
• Support groups
• Care partner support

Membership is free and confidential, and anyone touched by PD is welcome.

Take the First Step Toward Living Well
If you suspect early Parkinson’s or have been recently diagnosed, you don’t have to face it alone.
👉 Sign up for the PASWFL newsletter: https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup-enews.html
👉 Become a free member: https://parkinsonassociationswfl.org/signup.html
Visit www.paswfl.org to discover the power of support, education, and community.