Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which statement regarding obstructive sleep apnea is not correct?

1. Treatment of sleep apnea has been proven to significantly improve blood pressure

2. Treatment of sleep apnea has been conclusively proven to improve glycemic control

3. Treatment of sleep apnea has been conclusively shown to improve quality of life

4. People who are obese are 4-10 times more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea

The correct answer is: Treatment of sleep apnea has been conclusively proven to improve glycemic control

The assertion that treatment of sleep apnea has been conclusively proven to improve glycemic control is not correct. While there is some evidence suggesting a correlation between obstructive sleep apnea and impaired glucose metabolism, the direct effects of treating sleep apnea on glycemic control are not as well established as in other areas such as blood pressure management and quality of life improvements. Research indicates that while patients may experience some benefits in metabolic outcomes after treatment for sleep apnea, the evidence does not consistently show that these improvements significantly influence glycemic control in a conclusive manner. This distinction indicates that while there may be potential benefits, they are not as definitive or strongly supported by clinical studies compared to the impacts on blood pressure or overall quality of life. In contrast, it is well-documented that effective treatment for sleep apnea, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, can lead to significant reductions in blood pressure. Numerous studies have demonstrated this direct relationship, establishing a clearer and more consistent connection. Additionally, the quality of life improvements stemming from treatment of obstructive sleep apnea are well recognized. Patients report better sleep, increased daytime alertness, and improved overall functioning after receiving appropriate interventions. Moreover, obesity is a significant risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea, with statistics indicating