A comprehensive study has revealed that obstructive sleep apnoea, a serious condition characterised by repeated breathing interruptions during sleep, incurs staggering costs of over £137 billion ($185 billion) each year in both the UK and the US. With symptoms including excessive daytime sleepiness and loud snoring, this prevalent yet often undiagnosed disorder poses significant risks to both individual health and broader economic productivity.
The Scope of the Problem
Obstructive sleep apnoea affects approximately one billion individuals worldwide, with an estimated eight million sufferers in the UK alone. Alarmingly, up to 85% of those afflicted remain undiagnosed. The condition not only disrupts sleep but is also linked to severe health complications, including an elevated risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Recent research conducted by University College London surveyed over 4,000 adults from both the UK and the US. The findings revealed that around 20% of participants reported experiencing breathing pauses for three or more nights as well as excessive daytime sleepiness, key indicators of obstructive sleep apnoea.
Economic Implications
The economic analysis presented in the study, published in the journal *Thorax*, highlighted the substantial financial burden obstructive sleep apnoea places on the workforce. Researchers determined that the condition leads to an annual loss of approximately $180 billion (£133 billion) in the US and £4.2 billion in the UK, primarily due to lost workdays and diminished workplace performance.
However, the authors cautioned that these figures likely underestimate the true costs, as they do not account for increased medical expenses or the financial repercussions of accidents on the road and at work.
In response to these findings, the researchers advocate for the implementation of workplace screening and early treatment strategies. They assert that “the significant yet often overlooked burden of obstructive sleep apnoea and its economic impact” necessitates dedicated resources for effective screening and public health initiatives. Proactive identification and treatment could save billions in productivity costs annually.
Challenges in Treatment and Awareness
Despite advancements in screening technology and diagnostic algorithms, maintaining treatment can be a challenge for many patients. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, the standard treatment, sees nearly two-thirds of patients discontinuing use. Furthermore, alternatives such as weight loss medications, dental devices, and surgical interventions may not be suitable for everyone.
Concerns regarding job security also complicate matters. While the trade union Unite supports the introduction of screening for professional drivers, it insists that workers must be assured of protection against job loss should sleep apnoea be diagnosed. Adrian Jones, national officer at Unite, emphasised the importance of education for employers about the effective management of sleep apnoea, allowing workers to feel secure in disclosing their health issues without fear of repercussions.
Why it Matters
Addressing obstructive sleep apnoea is not just a medical concern; it is a significant economic issue that affects millions of individuals and the broader workforce. By prioritising early diagnosis and treatment, we can enhance individual health outcomes while simultaneously mitigating substantial economic losses. A systematic approach to screening and support for those affected will not only improve lives but could also lead to considerable savings in productivity costs, benefiting society as a whole.
