Obstructive sleep apnea, CPAP therapy, and diabetes

This study involved a large population of veterans diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The study authors examined CPAP therapy usage and its effect on diabetes. The results showed that metabolic markers of diabetes were reduced in those patients that used the CPAP the most per night. Specifically, usage of at least 6 hours per night. The reduction in diabetes markers was not present in those with less nightly CPAP usage. Also, the risk of developing diabetes was reduced by those that used CPAP at least 6 hours per night. Finally, both of these findings were not influenced by the slight increase in weight observed during the follow up period measured.