[Sleep apnea syndromes and traffic accidents]

The sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) is an independent and important risk factor of traffic accidents. The risk is further increased by cofactors such as alcohol intake or poor visibility driving conditions. It is still difficult to prospectively identify apneic patients at forseeable driving risk; previous accidents, reaction tests, steering simulation tests as different polysomnographic parametres appear to be the most promising markers. The initiation of nocturnal nasal continuous positive airway pressure treatment (nCPAP) normalizes patient's accident risk. Unfortunately there does not exist any accurate European nor national regulation dealing with issuing a driving licence for persons with sleep apnea disorder.