Sleep Apnea & AMD

by John R Martinelli MD OD FAAO

Oct 31, 2024

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Would you or would you not expect a link?...

A recent national cohort study found a relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The research focused on prevalence rates and risk factors, revealing a significant correlation between these two conditions.

Key findings show individuals with OSA demonstrate a higher incidence and faster progression of AMD compared to those without OSA. Several risk factors were identified contributing to this association, including age and gender. Notably, the strength of correlation increased with age, suggesting a cumulative effect over time - likely related to chronic O2 compromise.

The findings underscore the importance of paying careful attention to the macula, especially if other known risk factors are present with our OSA patients, particularly in older age groups.

For us, this highlights the need for increased vigilance and potentially earlier interventions in managing AMD and its risk in individuals with sleep disorders.

-JRM

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