Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a complex sleep disorder that often has no single cause. While it can have a genetic link, lifestyle factors, such as obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption, may also play a part.¹

In short, a family history of OSA may increase your risk, but it’s not a guarantee that you’ll develop the disorder.²

This article delves into the genetic factors that can contribute to the risk of developing OSA, other potential causes, and ways to reduce the likelihood if this sleep disorder runs in your family. 

Are there biological factors linked to sleep apnea?

Biological factors can contribute to sleep apnea. You can inherit the disorder or the physical traits that increase your risk. Several genetic disorders and syndromes are also linked with a potential OSA risk.   

Family patterns

If members of your family – particularly close relatives such as siblings or parents – have sleep apnea, you could be more likely to develop it. Direct relatives of an individual with sleep apnea are more likely to snore and experience apneas during sleep.² One study reported that genetics could play a role in up to 40% of risk factors present in cases of OSA.³

Genetic disorders

Some genetic disorders, including Prader-Willi syndrome, Down syndrome, achondroplasia, and cerebral palsy are associated with a higher OSA risk.⁴

Age and gender influences

Men are two to three times more likely to develop OSA in their lifetime, although women’s risk rises to a similar level after menopause. Age may also play a role – there is a higher possibility of developing OSA if you’re middle-aged or older.¹
 

Physical characteristics linked to sleep apnea

Even if OSA isn’t passed down directly through your family, you can inherit physical traits that may make you more likely to develop it. These include:

Facial structure and airway anatomy

A wider head shape, short chin, and narrow throat can increase OSA risk, as they make it harder to keep your airway open during sleep.⁵ 

Jaw shape and position

A small or receding lower jaw can make it more likely for your tongue and soft palate to fall back into your airway and therefore obstruct breathing.⁶

Tongue size and position 

A large, wide tongue can significantly impact on breathing during sleep.⁵

Neck circumference

A larger-sized neck can be an accurate predictor for OSA. For men, this means a neck circumference of 17 inches and larger. For women, it’s 16 inches or more.⁷  

Body composition

Your body type and weight distribution matter too – people who carry fat in their stomach and abdomen can have a higher risk of OSA.¹

Muscle tone and control

Poor muscle tone in the areas around your mouth, jaw and neck can make it harder to keep your airway open while you sleep.⁸

Non-genetic risk factors

OSA can result from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Even if you don’t have a genetic predisposition, the following factors have the potential to increase your risk. 

Obesity

With an estimated 25% of obese adults experiencing some level of apnea during sleep, extra weight can be a significant risk factor for OSA. This may be the result of excess fat in the throat, neck and tongue putting pressure on the airway.¹

Smoking

Smoking can cause inflammation in the throat and tongue and impact lung function. If you smoke, you’re around three times more likely to develop sleep apnea.⁹

Alcohol use

Similarly, alcohol can relax the muscles in your jaw and throat, which can cause or exacerbate sleep apnea.¹⁰

Symptoms that may indicate the presence of sleep apnea

Do you have a family history of sleep apnea? These are some of the signs to watch for if you’re concerned that you, or a family member, may have this sleep disorder.^5,12
 

• Observed breathing pauses during sleep
• Chronic loud snoring (especially gasping, choking, or snorting)
• Morning headaches
• Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes and irritability
• Night sweats
• Morning dry mouth or sore throat

Read our article for more information on common sleep apnea symptoms. 
 

Understanding your personal risk

Because sleep apnea may increase the chance of developing other health conditions, such as heart problems or type 2 diabetes, it’s important to have a good grasp of your personal risk level.    

Here’s how: 

Family history assessment

Your doctor or sleep specialist should be contacted to assess your family history and genetic risk factors.   

Consider taking a sleep study

A sleep study is the most common diagnostic OSA test. If you have multiple sleep apnea symptoms, your doctor or specialist may recommend you undergo one.  

Prevention and management strategies

If you have a genetic predisposition to this sleep disorder and other risk factors,  
there are ways to reduce your likelihood of developing sleep apnea, and effective treatment options if it does happen. These may include:¹²

Lifestyle modifications

Lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking or drinking, can help you minimize non-genetic risk factors.   

Weight management

Maintaining a healthy weight isn’t always easy, but it is an effective way to reduce your OSA risk.  

Early detection strategies

It is advisable to seek medical advice if you are concerned you may have sleep apnea or are presenting with the symptoms outlined in this article.

Treatment options

There are a number of effective treatment options for sleep apnea, including continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.

Frequently asked questions

If my biological parents have sleep apnea, will I get it?

If your parents have sleep apnea, it’s not a guarantee that you will get it as well. However, having a close relative with OSA can increase your risk by an estimated 40%.³

Can sleep apnea skip generations?

Yes, sleep apnea can skip generations because it’s not passed down directly. Instead, multiple genes, genetic disorders, and inherited physical characteristics can increase your likelihood of developing the disorder.²

This content is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for the medical advice of one’s healthcare provider.