A new study has found that visceral fat in men has a strong link to men with the sleep disorder, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Visceral fat is a type of fat that collects in the abdomen and is considered a high risk factor for a number of serious health conditions. Men and women are both at risk for OSA when they are obese, but men are diagnosed with the disorder in greater numbers. Some studies have indicated that men with OSA are at a greater risk of mortality than women.
Researchers in Japan evaluated the relationship between visceral fat and OSA in both men and women. The study included 271 men and 100 women who had been treated for OSA. Results revealed a strong association between men with OSA and visceral fat, but not among the women. The findings included:
-In men, visceral fat accumulation was associated with two indicators of low blood oxygen, which are indicators of sleep apnea. In women, researchers found no association between OSA and visceral fat accumulation.
-In men, visceral fat was associated with age and body mass index (BMI), while in women it was only associated with BMI.
-Men had more severe OSA than women and more severe dyslipidemia (abnormal levels of lipids in the blood).
The findings help to explain the elevated risks of cardiovascular disease among men with OSA. Other studies suggest that women should be aware of their subcutaneous fat, located just beneath the skin in the abdomen and throughout the body; it’s where the association with sleep apnea exists for them.
Be sure to protect your body, we only get one! Sleep apnea is known to increase risk of diabetes, cancer and heart diseases. If you suspect that you or anyone that you know has the sleep disorder, consult with a licensed physician today!
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