Home / Health / Sleep Apnea Costs UK Billions Annually
Sleep Apnea Costs UK Billions Annually
25 Feb
Summary
- Sleep apnea may cost UK businesses £4.22 billion annually.
- Roughly 7% of working-age adults in the UK have sleep apnea.
- Key signs include choking, gasping, and excessive daytime sleepiness.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may impose substantial financial burdens on businesses, prompting recommendations for workplace screening. A recent study analyzing economic impacts in the UK and US found that for working-age adults, OSA could lead to significant losses.
In the UK alone, the condition is estimated to cause productivity losses reaching as high as £4.22 billion annually, averaging £1,840 per affected worker. This underscores the economic relevance of addressing sleep apnea within the workforce.
Experts highlight that persistent loud snoring, especially when accompanied by choking, gasping for air, or pauses in breathing during sleep, could signal OSA. Excessive daytime sleepiness, poor concentration, and low mood are also critical indicators of fragmented sleep quality.
Untreated sleep apnea poses serious health risks, including increased likelihood of strokes, heart attacks, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It can also negatively impact mental health, with some studies suggesting a correlation with depression.
Diagnosis typically involves a home sleep test, which monitors breathing patterns and oxygen levels. Treatment options range from lifestyle modifications like reducing alcohol consumption and managing weight, to CPAP therapy that keeps airways open during sleep. Surgical interventions and advanced implants are also available for severe cases.
