ABSTRACT
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent public health hazard. At least 1 out of every 5 Caucasian adults has mild sleep apnea, defined as Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI) ≥5, while at least 1 out of every 15 adults has moderate sleep apnea (AHI ≥15).1,2 Men have a two-to-threefold greater risk for developing sleep apnea compared to women.1 Four percent of Caucasian women and 22% of Caucasian men in the age group 25-60 years old are affected, and the prevalence rises to 32% in women and 42% in men after age 60 years old.3,4 Children are affected as well, with estimates ranging from 3% to as high as 10-20% in habitual snorers.5
