Sleep on the Sidelines: Why Sleep Apnea Deserves a Place in Australia’s Health Agenda May 1, 2025 With the 2025 Australian federal election fast approaching on May 3, one issue that deserves more attention is sleep health. Regardless of the outcome, it’s clear that better support for those with sleep disorders is long overdue. Sleep apnea is one of the most prevalent yet underdiagnosed conditions affecting our sleep and overall health—with an estimated 80% of those who have it remaining undiagnosed.1 The Growing Problem in Australia In Australia, sleep disorders are on the rise — and sleep apnea is one of the most common and underdiagnosed. 2 in 3 Australians experience at least one sleep problem, yet few realise just how serious the health consequences can be.2 People with sleep apnea specifically, face a higher risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and irregular heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation.3 Despite these risks, a widespread lack of education and awareness means many people go undiagnosed until the condition has already caused serious damage to their heart and overall health. Even when someone does recognise the warning signs, access to proper diagnosis is often delayed. Public sleep studies in Australia currently come with long wait times, sometimes stretching for months, particularly in regional areas with limited specialist services. These delays leave thousands of Australians living with untreated sleep apnea, unknowingly placing their heart and overall health at risk. That’s why there’s an urgent need for greater public education, faster diagnostic access, and increased funding for sleep health. Many Australians still don’t realise that poor sleep could be quietly harming their health every night. What Needs to Change? The upcoming election provides an opportunity to push for better sleep health policies. Australia needs more funding for CPAP devices, greater access to sleep studies, and better education for healthcare professionals to recognise sleep disorders early. Regional areas especially, need increased funding to ensure that all Australians, no matter where they live, have access to the healthcare they need. Take Action If you suspect you have sleep apnea or another sleep disorder, it’s important to talk to your doctor. Many people live with sleep issues without realising the damage they may be causing to their health. A simple sleep study can help diagnose the problem, and treatments like CPAP therapy can significantly improve your quality of life if you have sleep apnea. As we approach the election, let’s advocate for better sleep health funding and access to care. Whether you’re in a city or a regional area, better sleep means better health. If you’re struggling with sleep, don’t wait for change — speak to your doctor today and take the first step toward a healthier you. How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic has grown to become a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products in Australia, with over 60 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team includes Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants, ensuring that you receive comprehensive and personalised care. All medical procedures, including sleep studies and lung function testing, are bulk billed to all Australians, with minimal wait time. If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek advice for your sleep apnea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au. ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&C’s apply. Citations 1. Berry, Sarah. “At Least One in Five People Don’t Know They Have This Sleep Problem.” The Sydney Morning Herald, 19 May 2023, www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/health-and-wellness/at-least-one-in-five-people-don-t-know-they-have-this-sleep-problem-20230518-p5d9dj.html. Accessed 1 May 2025. 2. Sparke, Claire. “New AIHW Report on Sleep Problems as a Risk Factor for Chronic Conditions.” Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 26 Nov. 2021, www.aihw.gov.au/news-media/news/2021/november/new-aihw-report-on-sleep-problems-as-a-risk-factor. 3. Floras, John S. “Sleep Apnea and Cardiovascular Risk.” *Journal of Cardiology*, vol. 63, no. 1, 1 Jan. 2014, pp. 3–8, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0914508713002529, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jjcc.2013.08.009. Accessed 23 Nov. 2022.
