Newswise — Philadelphia, PA (November 14, 2014) — Sleep apnea may accelerate kidney function decline in diabetic patients with kidney disease, according to a study that will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2014 November 11¬–16 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, PA.

Type 2 diabetes often contributes to the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Because obstructive sleep apnea is common in patients with type 2 diabetes, investigators wonder whether disordered sleep might play a role in the link between diabetes and kidney dysfunction. To investigate, researchers led by Roberto Pisoni, MD (Medical University of South Carolina) analyzed information on 56 patients with diabetes and CKD who had undergone screening for obstructive sleep apnea through the use of a questionnaire.

The researchers found that 61% of patients had a high score on the questionnaire. These individuals had a significantly lower level of kidney function than those with a low score.

“This study shows that a high-risk score for obstructive sleep apnea is common in non-dialysis CKD patients with diabetic nephropathy and is associated with more rapid loss of renal function,” the investigators concluded. “This simple approach identifies patients at higher risk of CKD progression.”

Study: “Being at High Risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Is Associated with More Rapid Loss of Kidney Function in Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy” (Abstract FR-PO758)

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ASN Kidney Week 2014, the largest nephrology meeting of its kind, will provide a forum for more than 13,000 professionals to discuss the latest findings in renal research and engage in educational sessions related to advances in the care of patients with kidney and related disorders. Kidney Week 2014 will take place November 11–16, 2014 in Philadelphia, PA.

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Founded in 1966, and with more than 15,000 members, the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) leads the fight against kidney disease by educating health professionals, sharing new knowledge, advancing research, and advocating the highest quality care for patients.

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ASN Kidney Week 2014