Is Sleep Apnea Becoming a More Common Diagnosis?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea, estimated to impact nearly 936 million adults between the ages 30 and 69 globally, according to a study published in 2025. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and are wondering whether your diagnosis is common, today, the answer is yes. More people are being diagnosed with OSA than ever before, but how and why is that the case? Read on to learn more.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder that results in routine breathing disruptions throughout the night, causing a lack of oxygen to the brain and rest of the body. In particular, obstructive sleep apnea is caused by airway obstruction that commonly leads to loud snoring, chronic fatigue, and waking up with a sore throat and headache.

Research has shown that, when left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can dramatically increase risk of other health concerns as well, such as heart attack, stroke, and even Alzheimer’s.  

Is Sleep Apnea on the Rise?

A 2025 study published in Respiratory Medicine analyzed patient data from the Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa in Finland to determine the prevalence of sleep apnea diagnoses between the years 2005 and 2019. What they found was that annual diagnoses of OSA in the Finnish population increased by 470% throughout that time. There are several factors that can play a role in this increase, but no direct correlation.

Another study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal projects that by 2050, OSA could affect 77 million adults in the United States alone, which would be an increase of about 35 percent from 2020.

What are Treatment Options for OSA?

There are a variety of underlying factors that can increase your risk of sleep apnea, including habits like smoking, genetics, and environmental changes. You can work with a knowledgeable sleep apnea dentist in Kerrville or sleep physician to help make lifestyle changes, if necessary, as well as seek out effective treatment options. This will help improve your health and allow your body to receive necessary oxygen flow to keep it functioning.

Depending on your preference, sleep study results, and other factors, you may be able to choose from CPAP therapy and/or oral appliance treatment. To learn which option is best for you, visit with your provider to discuss the pros and cons of different treatments. When you seek out treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, there’s no way that you can go wrong!

About the Author

Dr. Carroll Butler has over 25 years of experience in the dental field and completed an advanced year-long residency following earning his dental degree. He is currently a mentor at the renowned Kois Center, where he conducts and publishes independent research and teaches the next generation of dentists. To learn more about sleep apnea treatment in Kerrville, schedule a consultation by visiting Carroll R. Butler, DDS, PA’s website or call 830-257-4900.