Scientists hope that a simple blood test can help predict the risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
An estimated 1.5 million adults in the UK suffer from the condition, which causes them to be extremely tired and stop breathing during sleep. Many patients experience fatigue during sleep due to difficulty getting enough air, while others experience extreme fatigue during the day.
According to recent warnings, this condition can be life-threatening in some cases.
Studies show that if left untreated, patients with this condition have a 30% increased risk of heart disease and a 60% increased risk of stroke.
Common factors that contribute to OSA include age, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and type 2 diabetes.
The study was published in the European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology.