Association of Respiratory-Related Leg Movements and Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Sleep Apnea
2024 Focused Projects Grant for Junior Investigators
NEDA ESMAEILI, PHD
BRIGHAM AND WOMEN’S HOSPITAL AND HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL
Key Project Outcome
Our study demonstrates significant associations between the frequency of respiratory-related leg movements and increased risk of all-cause and CVD-related mortality in persons with OSA. These associations remained robust even after adjusting for confounders and novel OSA-specific risk factors. Additionally, the duration/intensity of these leg movements serves as a marker for severe respiratory events.
Monitoring respiratory-related leg movements could thus be a practical approach for identifying severe OSA and predicting adverse health outcomes, enhancing patient management and treatment strategies.