Global burden of sleep-disordered breathing and its implications

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Sleep Medicine

Background:

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) impacts approximately one billion adults worldwide, with obesity and advanced age as primary risk factors.
• Global obesity rates have surged, affecting nearly two billion adults, exacerbating OSA prevalence.
• Untreated OSA poses significant threats to individual and global health, leading to severe comorbidities and increased mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the increasing global burden of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).
• To emphasize the need for a deeper understanding of OSA pathophysiology and risk factors.
• To advocate for improved infrastructure and novel approaches for OSA diagnosis and management.

Main Methods:

• Review of global population data and epidemiological trends related to OSA.
• Analysis of risk factors including obesity and aging demographics.
• Examination of existing research on OSA comorbidities and economic impact.

Main Results:

• OSA prevalence is substantial and increasing globally, linked to rising obesity and an aging population.
• Significant comorbidities and mortality are associated with untreated OSA, posing a major public health challenge.
• Economic costs of OSA are extensive, affecting individuals, families, and society.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of OSA's pathophysiology and diverse phenotypes is crucial for effective management.
• Current infrastructure for OSA diagnosis and treatment needs adaptation to meet rising demand.
• Novel approaches, including AI and EHRs, alongside a unified global strategy, are essential for managing this chronic disease.