Study Says Air Pollution Worsens Sleep Apnea A new study has said that air pollution can increase the risk and severity of obstructive sleep apnea. Study Says Air Pollution Worsens Sleep Apnea It is a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. The condition affects 18 million people just in the US. Study Says Air Pollution Worsens Sleep Apnea As per the research, exposure to persistently high levels of air pollution can cause systemic inflammation. Study Says Air Pollution Worsens Sleep Apnea It also causes oxidative stress, potentially leading to or worsening upper airway dysfunction during sleep. Study Says Air Pollution Worsens Sleep Apnea For the study, experts carried out a systemic review and meta-analysis of 12 studies. Study Says Air Pollution Worsens Sleep Apnea They found that air pollutants, especially NO2, might play a role in worsening sleep apnea risk and severity. Study Says Air Pollution Worsens Sleep Apnea NO2 is part of a group of gaseous air pollutants produced because of road traffic and other fossil fuel combustion processes. Study Says Air Pollution Worsens Sleep Apnea The researchers said that this discovery has significant implications for clinical practice. Study Says Air Pollution Worsens Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea also leads to several health complications, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension and impaired cognitive function.