Published on: 6/12/2025
Is sleep apnea genetic and what are the hereditary risk factors?
Sleep apnea can be influenced by genetics, and having family members with the condition can increase your risk.
Explanation
Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep. It can run in families, which means that if someone in your family has sleep apnea, you might be more likely to have it too.
Hereditary Risk Factors
- Family History: Having close relatives with sleep apnea can increase your chances of developing it.
- Body Structure: Certain physical traits like a larger neck circumference or smaller airways, which can be inherited, may increase risk.
- Genetic Links: Studies have found specific genes that might make someone more likely to have sleep apnea.
Understanding these genetic factors can help in identifying and managing sleep apnea early. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider if you think you might be at risk.
(References)
- Mukherjee S, Saxena R, & Palmer LJ. (2018). The genetics of obstructive sleep apnoea. Respirology (Carlton, Vic.), 29113020.
- Redline S, & Tishler PV. (2000). The genetics of sleep apnea. Sleep medicine reviews, 12531037.
- Strausz S, Ruotsalainen S, Ollila HM, Karjalainen J, Kiiskinen T, Reeve M, et al. (2021). Genetic analysis of obstructive sleep apnoea discovers a .... The European respiratory journal, 33243845.
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