American Sleep Association Launches Sleep Apnea Awareness Week On October 1, 2007

Main Category: Sleep / Sleep Disorders / Insomnia
Article Date: 19 Sep 2007 - 19:00 PDT

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The American Sleep Association is preparing for Sleep Apnea Awareness Week, a national event focused on increasing public awareness about this potentially deadly sleep disorder. The event will occur during the first seven days of October.

Local and national members and affiliates of the American Sleep Association (ASA) will be participating in the event. ASA affiliated sleep disorder laboratories will be prepared to answer questions from the public about sleep apnea. The website, http://www.SleepApneaAwarenessWeek.com, sponsored by the ASA, will feature a unique lecture on sleep apnea each day during the week.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a disorder characterized by repetitive pauses in breathing during sleep caused by a temporary blockage in the throat. Over 5% of adults suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. Most individuals affected by the disorder are unaware of its presence. Dr. Neil Kline, of the ASA, states, "Sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of motor vehicle accidents as well as an increase risk of heart attack, stroke, and deadly heart rhythms. Yet, it is easily treated once it is diagnosed."

There are a few options available for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most popular and successful treatment option. A mask placed over the nose delivers air pressure into the throat, preventing the airway from closing during the night. Other treatment options include a custom-made mouth piece, weight loss, and surgery.

Once treated, individuals diagnosed with sleep apnea often feel significantly more alert, and also decrease their risk of heart attacks, strokes, and accidents related to excessive daytime sleepiness.

The American Sleep Association (ASA) is a national organization focused on improving public awareness about sleep disorders, promoting sleep medicine research, and providing a portal for communication between patients, physicians/healthcare professionals and scientists. The ASA is a member-driven public service project. For further information about Sleep Apnea Awareness Week, visit http://www.sleepassociation.org or http://www.SleepApneaAwarenessWeek.com.