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A study conducted by the University of Miami and published this Wednesday in the digital journal Neurology of the American Academy of Neurology has revealed that sleep disorders, such as apnea, can cause changes in the brain that increase the risk of developing dementia.
The research, conducted with a sample of 2,667 Latinos in the United States, highlights the negative effects of these sleep issues on memory, cognition, and overall brain health.
The study results indicate that individuals with lower oxygen levels during sleep showed changes in the brain's white matter, a phenomenon linked to the decline in brain health that occurs with age.
According to Dr. Alberto Ramos, the lead author of the study and director of the Sleep Disorders Program at the Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami, this situation can lead to cognitive decline and, ultimately, to dementia.
"When breathing stops, it can decrease oxygen levels and affect the brain," explains Ramos.
Latinos in the United States are a high-risk group
The study focused on Latinos due to their higher risk of developing dementia compared to the non-Latino white population in the United States.
The participants, with an average age of 68, underwent sleep tests that measured apneas (interruptions in breathing) and hypopneas (slow or shallow breathing). Their blood oxygen levels were also analyzed during sleep.
The results categorized the participants into three groups:
- Without sleep problems: 56%.
- Mild sleep issues: 28%.
- Moderate to severe problems: 16%.
Brain volume and oxygen during sleep
After ten years of monitoring, the researchers conducted scans on the patients to assess brain volume and potential damage to white matter.
They discovered that participants with moderate to severe sleep problems showed an increase in the volume of the hippocampus, a key region for memory and learning.
This increase, according to Ramos, does not represent an improvement but rather a possible indicator of harm. Previous studies have linked both brain contraction and growth to alterations in normal cognitive functions.
The doctor emphasizes that these findings are crucial for understanding how sleep apnea and other disorders affect the brain. This could enable earlier identification and treatment of patients, particularly those at higher risk of developing dementia.
"A clear understanding of how brain volume is affected by sleep apnea and other disorders is essential for individuals to receive early and effective treatment," the specialist concludes.
Reflection on Sleep Health
The research highlights the importance of addressing sleep disorders as a way to prevent long-term cognitive issues.
While snoring or pauses in breathing may seem harmless, this study makes it clear that they can have serious consequences for brain health, particularly in vulnerable populations such as Latinos.
This information highlights the need to raise awareness about the importance of healthy sleep and to seek medical assistance when signs of apnea or other disorders occur. Brain health, like other aspects of well-being, can significantly benefit from a preventive and proactive approach.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Risk of Dementia Due to Sleep Disorders in Latinos
What is the relationship between sleep apnea and the risk of dementia in Latinos?
Sleep apnea and other disorders can lead to changes in the brain that increase the risk of developing dementia. A study from the University of Miami found that Latinos with sleep problems exhibit alterations in the brain's white matter, which are associated with cognitive decline and dementia.
Why do Latinos in the United States have a higher risk of sleep-related dementia?
Latinos have a higher risk of developing dementia compared to the non-Latino white population. This risk is attributed to both genetic factors and health conditions, as well as lifestyle choices that may impact sleep quality and, consequently, brain health.
How do oxygen levels during sleep affect the brain?
Low levels of oxygen during sleep can lead to changes in the brain's white matter. These changes are associated with brain and cognitive decline, which increases the risk of dementia. Breathing interruptions, as seen in sleep apnea, reduce the oxygen available to the brain.
What measures can Latinos take to reduce the risk of dementia related to sleep disorders?
It is essential to identify and address sleep disorders early. Consulting a sleep specialist, making lifestyle changes, and, if necessary, using treatments such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices can help improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
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