Signal Obstructive sleep apnea estimated to affect one billion people, mostly undiagnosed

Summary

The Sleep Initiative argues that sleep disorders are far more common than most people realise. Obstructive sleep apnea is estimated to affect about one billion people worldwide, and most of those cases have never been diagnosed. Insomnia disorder affects between 10 and 15 percent of adults. Left untreated, sleep apnea is associated with high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, stroke, depression and a greater risk of accidents. Cost, limited access and the burden of lab testing have meant millions live with treatable conditions without a clinical explanation. The Initiative presents home testing and telemedicine as the means to reach this undiagnosed population.