Study links sleep apnoea to depression in men

Researchers in Australia have found a possible link between sleep apnoea and depression in men.

The study, presented today at the 2015 American Thoracic Society International Conference, involved 1,875 between the ages of 35 and 83 who were assessed for depression. From this sample, the researchers then tested 857 men for sleep apnoea, who had not previously received a diagnosis for the condition.

After considering other factors, the scientists found there was an increased prevalence of depression in the group of men who had not been previously diagnosed for severe sleep apnoea. The link was also found between depression and men who reported that they were very tired during the day.

Men that had both undiagnosed sleep apnoea and excessive daytime sleepiness were at the highest risk, being four to five times more likely to have depression than those without either.

Based on their findings, the researchers recommend that men with symptoms of depression be tested for sleep apnoea.

Read the press release and abstract.