In Canada, about 4 per cent of the adult population is affected, says Dr. Younes, director of the Sleep Disorders Clinic and Sleep Laboratory at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg. Even if the diaphragm pulls harder, it cannot get enough air because it makes the throat collapse more. The practical issue in much of Canada is that the facilities to diagnose and treat sleep apnea, which requires overnight monitoring, are so sparsely available that Dr. Younes' clinic hasa two-year waiting list and is constantly having to prioritize the most serious cases. The Lung Association believes the time has come to step up efforts to foster public education about sleep apnea syndrome. Johnson believes that a certain public embarrassment is overcome when The Lung Association puts the issue forward plainly.
Most people try to hide it.
People don't always even tell their doctors. The key is for people potentially suffering sleep apnea to understand that it is much more important than a social nuisance - and that the problem is treatable. Our role is to develop awareness and for The Lung Association across Canada to develop the resources to help professionals with this. Browse other articles on this site. All Rights Reserved.