1/3rd Indians wake up to poor sleep: Dr Vikas Agrawal

• Sleep apnea is extremely dangerous but easily treatable if diagnosed early.
• The lifetime burden of sleep apnea indicates that this condition leads to everything from heart disease to cancer to road safety concerns linked to excessive daytime sleepiness to divorces. This can be easily prevented if treated early and insurance companies cover all treatment modalities for sleep apnea.
• Snoring is a sensitive subject. Families can now use technology to detect snoring, sleep apnea and seek intervention early.

The inaugural event will also feature prominent voices in ENT including Padmashri Dr. Milind Kirtane and Padmashri Dr. Kameswaran. Global experts such as Dr. Maria Suurna (Miami), President of the International Sleep Surgery Society (ISSS) will throw light on insurance practices in the US.

Ahead of the conference, Dr Vikas Agrawal said, “Insurance coverage for basic OSA surgery is fragmented. Given how destructive sleep apnea is, and the pace of medical advancements, it is important that treatment be covered by all policies.  – for eg. in patients who cannot tolerate CPAP- a tongue based pace maker is available in developed countries, should be made available in India- it is important for families to be able to reach out for a cure. A simple day care procedure to cure sleep apnea can make a massive difference to people’s daily lives and prevent dangerous diseases from taking hold.”

Beyond surgical advancements, the conference seeks to encourage wider awareness, early diagnosis, and collaborative policy discussions to address sleep apnea as a growing public health concern in India.