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Prevalence of Symptoms and Risk of Sleep Apnea in the US Population^*

Results From the National Sleep Foundation Sleep in America 2005 Poll

^* From the Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine (Drs. Hiestand and Phillips), University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY; the National Sleep Foundation (Ms. Britz), Washington, DC; and WB&A Market Research (Ms. Goldman), Annapolis, MD.

Correspondence to: David M. Hiestand, MD, PhD, K528 Kentucky Clinic, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, 740 South Limestone St, Lexington, KY 40536-0028; e-mail: Dmhies00{at}email.uky.edu

Abstract

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common medical condition with significant adverse consequences, but OSA remains undiagnosed in many individuals. The Berlin questionnaire is a validated instrument that is used to identify individuals who are at risk for OSA.

Design: We conducted an analysis of data from the Sleep in America 2005 Poll of The National Sleep Foundation (NSF). The NSF poll is an annual telephone interview of a representative sample of US adults.

Participants: The 2005 NSF poll included 1,506 adults. The mean age of participants was 49 years (775 were women).

Measurements: The Berlin questionnaire was embedded in the NSF poll. This instrument includes questions about snoring, witnessed apneas, self-reported hypertension, and daytime sleepiness. Height and weight were included for the calculation of body mass index (BMI). The NSF poll included detailed demographic information and extensive questions related to all aspects of sleep.

Results: Of the 1,506 respondents, 26% (31% of men and 21% of women) met the Berlin questionnaire criteria indicating a high risk of OSA. The risk of OSA increased up to age 65 years. A significant number of obese individuals (57%) were at high risk for OSA. Those whose Berlin questionnaire scores indicated a high risk for OSA were more likely to report subjective sleep problems, a negative impact of sleep on quality of life, and a chronic medical condition than those who were at lower risk.

Conclusions: As many as one in four American adults could benefit from evaluation for OSA. Considering the serious adverse health and quality-of-life consequences of OSA, efforts to expedite diagnosis and treatment are indicated.

Key Words: epidemiology • obesity • obstructive sleep apnea • poll • public health • sleep hygiene • sleepiness

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