The Facts on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

OSA is a significant and growing public health problem

In the United States, the prevalence of OSA associated with daytime sleepiness is about 2% of adult women and 4% of adult men. OSA is widespread with similar prevalence estimates from Europe, Australia and Asia.1

OSA places a considerable burden on patients and families

People suffering from OSA report significant daytime sleepiness and impaired quality of life. OSA can contribute to the development of systemic hypertension, cardiovascular diseases (heart failure, heart rhythm disorders), stroke and diabetes.2

Patient compliance with front line OSA therepy is sub-optimal

CPAP is the current standard of treatment for OSA and is successful when used correctly and regularly. However, only half of OSA patients regularly use CPAP.3

1. Young T, Palta M, Dempsey J, et al. (1993) The Occurrence of Sleep-Disordered Breathing among Middle-Aged Adults. N Engl J Med 328:1230-1235

2. Bradley TD, Floras JS (2009) Obstructive Sleep Apnoea and Its Cardiovascular Consequences. Lancet 373:82-93

3. Weaver TE, Kribbs NB, Pack AI, et al. (1997) Night-to-Night Variability in CPAP Use over the First Three Months of Treatment. Sleep 20:278-283>