New research indicates a significant connection between untreated obstructive sleep apnea and an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. The study, published on November 24, 2025 in JAMA Neurology, highlights that veterans who do not treat their sleep apnea are nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed with Parkinson’s compared to those using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices.
The research was conducted by scientists from Oregon Health & Science University and the Portland VA Health Care System, who analyzed electronic health records belonging to over 11 million U.S. military veterans who received care through the Department of Veterans Affairs from 1999 to 2022.
Link Between Sleep Apnea and Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder, affects approximately 1 million people in the United States. The likelihood of developing the condition increases with age, particularly after the age of 60. The findings of this study suggest that untreated sleep apnea may exacerbate this risk.
Researchers controlled for various factors, including obesity, age, and high blood pressure, yet still observed a strong association between untreated sleep apnea and Parkinson’s. Among veterans with sleep apnea, those who did not use CPAP therapy had significantly higher odds of being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
“It’s not at all a guarantee that you’re going to get Parkinson’s, but it significantly increases the chances,” stated Gregory Scott, M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor of pathology at OHSU and a pathologist at the VA Portland.
Impact of Sleep Apnea on Brain Function
Sleep apnea is characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can lead to insufficient oxygen levels in the body. According to Lee Neilson, M.D., assistant professor of neurology at OHSU, “If you stop breathing and oxygen is not at a normal level, your neurons are probably not functioning at a normal level either.”
The cumulative effect of these disruptions over time may contribute to neurodegenerative conditions, including Parkinson’s disease. Neilson emphasizes that utilizing CPAP can improve sleep quality and potentially enhance resilience against such diseases.
The implications of this study may lead to a shift in clinical practices. Neilson believes that prioritizing sleep health is essential, particularly in light of the newly identified risk factors for Parkinson’s disease.
Veterans often report benefits from using CPAP devices. Scott noted that while some individuals with sleep apnea are reluctant to adopt CPAP therapy, many veterans express satisfaction with its use. “The veterans who use their CPAP love it. They’re telling other people about it. They feel better; they’re less tired,” he said.
If awareness of the connection between CPAP use and reduced Parkinson’s risk spreads, it may encourage more individuals to seek treatment for sleep apnea.
The research was supported by various grants and institutions, including the VA and the National Institute on Aging of the National Institutes of Health. The authors acknowledge that the views expressed in the study are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of Defense, the NIH, or the VA.
This study underscores the importance of addressing sleep disorders and their potential long-term effects on neurological health. As researchers continue to explore these links, the hope is to improve patient outcomes and enhance quality of life for those affected by sleep apnea and neurodegenerative diseases.
