Up To 45 Fold Increases In Sleep Disorder Rates Among Us Military

During the last 14 years, there has been a dramatic increase in insomnia and obstructive sleep apnoea amongst active-duty military members. From 2005-2019, insomnia increased 45-fold, and sleep apnoea increased over 30-fold.

Those most commonly diagnosed were male, married, Caucasian and were a higher-ranking enlisted Army service member (aged 40 or older). Across Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force personnel, the highest rates of these sleep disorders were seen in the Army.

These rates are particularly concerning given that military personnel are usually otherwise healthy. Military could increase rates of sleeping disorders, however this increase in sleep apnoea and insomnia could be a reflection of better sleep education. The Army has emphasised education on sleep disorders, which can help soldiers recognise their own sleep disturbances.

Hopefully, future research can identify the causes of these high rates, and create better prevention and treatment strategies for these soldiers.

The CPAP Clinic has a network of 40 clinics nationwide, and works in partnership with Centurion Healthcare, a Respiratory & Sleep Specialist clinic group to provide comprehensive sleep care including:

1. Respiratory & Sleep Specialist consultation – face-to-face and telehealth available
2. Sleep studies – in-lab, home and contactless sleep studies available. Bulk billing available for specialist telehealth consultations as well as sleep studies. Medicare criteria apply.

Call 1300 76 29 39 or email info@thecpapclinic.com.au for more information.