Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is associated with severe cerebro-cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. It is an independent
risk factor for atherosclerosis, arterial thrombosis and metabolic syndrome, and recently has been associated with an increased incidence
of cancer and death. A causal link between OSAS and atherosclerosis has been partially established. Recent research on atherosclerosis
in OSAS has focused on thrombotic tendency and blood viscosity, providing new insight into disease mechanisms. Hypoxia is a critical
pathophysiological element in OSAS that leads to intensive sympathetic activity, in association with inflammation, oxidative stress and procoagulant
activity. Hypoxia and the induction of oxidative stress can simultaneously represent an underlying mechanism in the pathogenesis
of cancer development and progression. This mini-review will discuss the latest findings on the association and potential relationship
between OSA and pathological vascular sequelae.