Although serum levels of triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and diastolic BP did not differ significantly between the two groups, fasting blood

Glucose (111 mg/dl vs 93 mg/dl) and the percentage of hypertensive patients (45% vs 15%) were significantly higher in the group with OSAS. In addition, a significantly higher percentage of patients with OSAS (19% vs 4%) had at least two of the following: hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia. Statistical analysis showed that the apnea-hypopnea index value was the predictor of number of metabolic syndrome parameters such as hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia, while BMI and lowest arterial oxygen saturation during sleep did not. The authors concluded that independent of visceral fat obesity, OSAS was associated with hypertension, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia. It is possible that OSAS may predispose even nonobese patients to the development of metabolic syndrome.

Kono M, Tatsumi K, et al.

Chest. 2007 May; 131(5):1387-92.