Environmental Factors as Modulators of the Relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Lesions in the Circulatory System

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a growing social problem, particularly in well-developed countries. It has been demonstrated that obstructive sleep apnea is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including arterial hypertension, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, rhythm/conduction disturbances, as well as cerebral stroke. The pathophysiology of these diseases is complex and multifactorial. We present the current state of research on behavioral and environmental factors that influence the relationship between OSA and cardiovascular changes. We discuss the relationship between obesity, alcohol, sedatives, environmental tobacco smoke, allergic diseases and environmental pollution on the one hand and OSA on the other. In this context, the environment should be considered as an important modulator of the relationship between OSA and cardiovascular diseases.