Sleep Apnoea: Impact on safety and psychosocial functions

Sleep apnoea is a common condition within the community. The consequences of untreated sleep apnoea are far-reaching and they include cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality, neurocognitive impairment, increased risk of motor vehicle accidents, occupational injuries, lower quality of life (QOL), and mood disorders. It is an important public safety issue in light of its prevalence in certain subgroups. Untreated sleep apnoea has substantial safety and psychosocial impairments, which translate to major health care costs. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment for sleep apnoea has been shown to have a positive impact on subjective quality of life and depression, and is cost effective.