What is causing the growing burden of obstructive sleep apnea?

Doctors largely attribute the growing burden of obstructive sleep apnea to lifestyle disorders.

What is the connection between obesity and sleep apnea?

Obesity is identified as a significant risk factor for sleep apnea, with a high percentage of obese individuals potentially developing the disorder.

What are the warning signs of sleep apnea that people should be aware of?

Key warning signs include loud snoring, excessive drowsiness during the daytime, and pauses in breathing during sleep.

Home / Health / Obesity Fuels Sleep Apnea Crisis, Doctors Warn

Obesity Fuels Sleep Apnea Crisis, Doctors Warn

8 Mar

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Summary

Doctors linked obstructive sleep apnea to lifestyle disorders.
Obesity is a significant risk factor for sleep apnea.
Low public awareness contributes to undiagnosed cases.

Obesity Fuels Sleep Apnea Crisis, Doctors Warn

Doctors at Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences (RMLIMS) raised alarms about the increasing prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), attributing it primarily to modern lifestyle disorders. The concerns were voiced during a workshop organized to observe World Sleep Day on Saturday, March 8, 2026.

Obesity emerged as a critical risk factor, with estimates suggesting that 70-80% of OSA patients are obese. Conversely, a staggering 90% of obese individuals may develop OSA. This rise is compounded by a significant lack of public awareness, leading to a large number of undiagnosed cases.

Experts emphasized that loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, and observed breathing pauses during sleep are crucial indicators. Early detection is vital to prevent more severe health complications. They also noted that sleep health is intrinsically linked to cardiovascular well-being, and even children's snoring should not be overlooked as it can signal sleep apnea.

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