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Sleep Apnea Ages Hearts Faster, Study Warns
12 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Untreated sleep apnea accelerates heart aging and increases early death risk.
- Mice exposed to simulated sleep apnea conditions showed signs of heart aging.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea are crucial for cardiovascular health.
New research indicates that untreated sleep apnea can dramatically speed up the aging process of the heart and heighten the likelihood of premature death.
Scientists utilized a mouse model to simulate the intermittent drops in oxygen characteristic of sleep apnea, observing that prolonged exposure led to a higher mortality risk. The affected rodents displayed accelerated heart aging, marked by elevated blood pressure, diminished heart function, and reduced blood vessel flexibility.
This study highlights the profound impact of sleep-disordered breathing on the cardiovascular system, emphasizing that early screening and interventions, such as CPAP therapy, are essential to mitigate these potentially fatal consequences.
