People with diabetes have higher levels of HbA1c and the risk of developing cardiovascular complications is increased as these levels are raised. Obstructive Sleep apnoea (OSA) has been linked with elevated blood sugar levels, suggesting that people with this condition could be at an increased risk of cardiovascular illness and mortality.

The findings of a new study, published in the European Respiratory Journal, add to a growing body of evidence that suggests that sleep apnoea is linked with diabetes. The research analysed 5,294 participants from the multinational European Sleep Apnoea Cohort (European Sleep Apnoea Database-ESADA Study). The results found that levels of glucose concentration were significantly linked with the severity of sleep apnoea. HbA1c levels correlated significantly with OSA severity. HbA1c levels rose from 5.24% in the group with lowest OSA severity to 5.50% in the group with the highest severity. The findings highlight the need for clinicians to be aware of the risks of diabetes when treating sleep apnoea.

Professor Walter McNicholas, an author of the study, said: "This is the largest study of its kind showing a link between sleep apnoea severity and glucose levels. I would also emphasise to patients the importance of weight control as a way to reduce the risks associated with the condition."