Obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, and cardiovascular risk

Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the number one killer of Americans. It is also a major risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea, which is rising in the US population as the obesity epidemic continues. Obstructive sleep apnea, in turn, has been implicated as a risk factor for hypertension, glucose dysregulation, and cardiovascular disease. Understanding the pathophysiologic links and the common-soil hypothesis for these rapidly growing disorders is of paramount importance for developing strategic therapeutic and preventive plans. This article discusses the associations of obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease, highlighting the pathophysiologic mechanisms, including increased oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation