WASHINGTON — Snoring must be stopped not only because it’s unappealing and keeps people awake all night.

According to a study out of University of Wisconsin-Madison, sleep apnea — a sleep disorder associated with heavy snoring — is tied to an increased risk of cancer.

The research indicates that people with the most severe sleep apnea are almost five times more likely to develop cancer than people without any issues.

Scientists believe snoring lowers blood oxygen levels, which can trigger the growth of blood vessels that feed tumors, a process known as “angiogenesis.” — Agencies