New research underscores the substantial financial burden obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) places on businesses, prompting experts to recommend workplace screening for the condition. A study by UK and US specialists reveals that OSA could cost companies billions annually due to lost productivity from absenteeism and reduced work efficiency. In the UK, 7% of working-age adults meet the criteria for OSA, with potential productivity losses amounting to £4.22 billion each year.
OSA, characterized by repeated breathing interruptions during sleep, often presents with loud snoring. Sleep experts identify key signs, such as choking episodes, gasping for air, or pauses in breathing, which might indicate a more serious problem. They also highlight excessive daytime sleepiness resulting from disrupted sleep as a major indicator of OSA.
Untreated OSA poses significant health risks, including strokes, heart attacks, diabetes, and neurocognitive decline. Diagnosis often begins with risk assessments and home sleep tests, while treatment typically involves lifestyle changes and technologies like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. Advances such as hypoglossal nerve implants and surgical interventions are available for severe cases, aiming to improve airway function and overall health.