Association of Sleep Apnea Severity and Obesity with Insulin Resistance, C-Reactive Protein, and Leptin Levels in Male Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obesity is the major confounding factor in the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and increased risk for cardiovascular disease. The aim of the study was to investigate the association of sleep apnea severity with insulin resistance, leptin, and CRP levels in a cohort of male patients. Sixty-seven men referred to our sleep laboratory for evaluation of suspected obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) were divided into three groups according to apnea severity: non-OSAS group ( n = 15), mild to moderate OSAS group ( n = 26), and severe OSAS ( n = 26). Insulin resistance was estimated by the homeostasis model assessment method. HOMA values were similar in the three groups: (3.2 ± 2.2 vs. 3.3 ± 1.8 vs. 3.6 ± 1.5, respectively, p = 0.71). Leptin levels were higher in the mild to moderate OSAS group (23.1 ± 21.8 ng/ml, p