ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the relationship between sleep and Coronary heart disease (CHD). Multiple studies have provided evidence to support the association of disturbed sleep with increased CHD risk in both adults and children. The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is even higher in patients with acute CHD events. Epidemiological studies have shown that carotid Intima–media thickness is a strong independent risk factor for predicting future CHD and stroke, even after adjusting for traditional risk factors. Patients with OSA have increased prevalence of dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and glucose intolerance, which are associated with increased CHD morbidity and mortality. Insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and diabetes are well-established risk factors for CHD. OSA has been associated with insulin resistance in animal and human investigations spanning crosssectional and prospective studies, as well as clinical trials. In summary, numerous studies have revealed an association between OSA, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and glucose intolerance.
