- Researchers are advocating for workplaces to screen employees for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) due to an estimated annual productivity loss of up to £4.22 billion in the UK.
- OSA affects approximately eight million people nationwide, with about 85 per cent of cases remaining undiagnosed.
- A pilot screening scheme is suggested for high-risk roles, such as professional driving, where daytime sleepiness poses significant dangers.
- The study highlights that early identification and treatment, including improving Cpap adherence and new non-Cpap therapies, could lead to substantial economic savings.
- Workers' unions and sleep apnoea charities emphasise the need for employment guarantees and support for employees, rather than penalisation, if OSA is identified.
IN FULL
