Global Warming Linked to Rise in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Cases Globally

A recent multinational study published in the journal *Nature Communications* reveals a troubling correlation between rising global temperatures and an increase in cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The research indicates that higher ambient temperatures are significantly associated with an uptick in the severity and frequency of this common sleep disorder, particularly on hotter nights. As global temperatures continue to rise, the implications for public health and economic productivity are becoming increasingly concerning.

The study, which analyzed data from over 125,000 adults using advanced under-mattress sleep sensors from January 2020 to September 2023, found that the likelihood of experiencing moderate-to-severe OSA increases by 45% as temperatures rise from 6.4°C to 27.3°C. This temperature-driven increase in OSA prevalence is projected to be linked to a staggering loss of nearly 790,000 healthy life years and an economic cost of around $98 billion USD. These figures include approximately $68 billion attributed to wellbeing losses and $30 billion due to reduced workplace productivity.

According to Dr. Benjamin Lechat, lead researcher and a scientist at the University of Cambridge, “Our findings highlight the urgent need for policymakers to address climate change proactively, as its health impacts are already being felt worldwide.” This call to action is underscored by the fact that OSA, which affects nearly one billion adults globally, is associated with numerous health complications, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and increased mortality.

The study's findings are particularly alarming given the context of recent record-high temperatures experienced in the northern hemisphere, which surpassed 2°C above pre-industrial levels. Without significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, projections indicate that global temperatures could rise by an additional 2.1 to 3.4°C by the end of the century, compounding the health risks associated with OSA.

Experts warn that the burden of OSA is disproportionately felt in lower-income countries, where the effects of climate change are often exacerbated by limited healthcare resources. Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor of Public Health at Harvard University, noted, “Lower-income populations are likely to bear the brunt of these health impacts, which could further entrench health disparities.” This viewpoint is echoed by the World Health Organization, which emphasizes the importance of integrating climate action into public health strategies.

The methodology of this extensive study included a robust case-time series design and non-linear fixed-effect models to accurately assess the relationship between ambient temperature and nightly OSA risk. Researchers meticulously matched daily climate data with individual sleep data, adjusting for variables such as air quality and sleep duration.

Key findings revealed that in 2023 alone, cities like London experienced a significant increase in OSA prevalence, contributing to over 59,000 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost. Furthermore, the economic impact of OSA due to increased absenteeism and presenteeism resulted in an estimated 80 million additional days of reduced workplace productivity.

Looking forward, if current trends in global warming continue, the prevalence of OSA is expected to rise by 1.2 to 3 times by 2100. As stated in the study, “The OSA burden may double by 2100,” suggesting that immediate action is necessary to mitigate these growing health challenges.

The findings of this study not only emphasize the urgent need to address climate change but also highlight the necessity for enhanced global health data and adaptation strategies to combat the rising incidence of obstructive sleep apnea associated with higher temperatures. Without intervention, the health and economic ramifications could be staggering, making it imperative for stakeholders across sectors to prioritize climate action and public health initiatives alike.