DOTmed February 7, 2025
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a widespread but often overlooked condition, characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. Despite affecting approximately 80 million adults in the U.S., an estimated 80% of cases go undiagnosed. Its impact extends far beyond disrupted rest, posing serious risks to cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
For healthcare professionals, OSA represents a critical public health challenge. This widespread underdiagnosis not only compromises individual health but also contributes to an economic burden of $149.6 billion annually, driven by increased healthcare utilization, motor vehicles and workplace accidents, and lost productivity.
Traditional treatments like positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy and surgical interventions, while effective, often face patient adherence issues due to comfort and convenience concerns. Emerging...