Sleep apnea is a chronic sleep disorder that impacts millions of people globally, with an estimated 83.7 million adults in the U.S. having the condition, according to a 2025 study published in the journal Respiratory Medicine. Despite its prevalence, sleep apnea diagnosis rates continue to lag behind, with an estimated 80% of Americans with sleep apnea remaining undiagnosed.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a chronic sleep disorder that occurs when a person’s breathing is interrupted during sleep. There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea, and mixed. OSA is the most common type, where the upper airway becomes obstructed, making it difficult to breathe.
Sleep apnea symptoms can be easy to miss and range in severity. Since the primary signs of sleep apnea happen while asleep, people often don’t realize they are struggling and only seek diagnosis after a partner notices their symptoms. Undiagnosed and untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, cognitive issues, metabolic disorders, and even early mortality.
Impact on Health
Sleep apnea can cause chronic sleep deprivation, resulting in more problems over time. If left untreated, sleep apnea is linked to increased risk of dementia, insulin resistance, diabetes, hypertension, heart attacks, and stroke. It may also cause chronic fatigue, impaired concentration, mood and personality changes, memory issues, depression, anxiety, and low sex drive.
Widespread misconceptions about who is most at risk for sleep apnea can hinder detection and diagnosis. The prevalence of sleep apnea greatly increases with age and obesity. Yet common sleep apnea symptoms, like fatigue and cardiovascular disease, are less likely to be investigated in individuals within these groups, further hindering diagnosis.
Fortunately, at-home sleep testing is now available, making it easier for people to get diagnosed and receive treatment. Increased awareness and education on sleep apnea can help people recognize symptoms earlier and seek preventative care.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
