The hard-hitting results of research by international sleep specialists Respironics - SASA have put sleep disorders in the spotlight this week. Revealed for the first time on the BBC [Real Story with Fiona Bruce, BBC1, 7.30pm on November 21, 2005] Respironics - SASA’s research findings demonstrate that one in six [80,000] UK HGV drivers is in need of immediate treatment to counteract a disorder which causes excessive daytime sleepiness and may result in death on the roads.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a breathing disorder which causes temporary closing of the airways and a cessation of breathing during sleep - often hundreds of times a night. Sufferers are often unaware of the condition and its nighttime effects but may experience extreme daytime fatigue and impaired function.

Respironics-SASA suspected that driver lifestyles would mean that HGV licence holders were susceptible to a higher prevalence of OSA. With Department for Transport figures showing there are approximately 500,000 active HGV drivers on the road in the UK, Respironics -SASA became concerned for the impact on road safety.

Jim Moylan, Respironics - SASA Project Director, says that the comprehensive research had confirmed their suspicions: “It’s absolutely vital that the freight industry takes this issue seriously – too many innocent lives are lost needlessly and drivers and managers alike could find themselves facing manslaughter charges.

“Normal prevalence of OSA in middle aged men is approximately 4% but our research among HGV drivers showed that 41 per cent have a sleep disorder of some form. An alarming 16 per cent [one in six] of all drivers have severe OSA requiring immediate treatment and some research suggests that they are up to seven times more likely to have an accident.

“OSA is easily diagnosed and, although a progressive disorder, it can be controlled simply and at relatively low cost. We’ve developed a simple OSA screening, diagnostic and compliance management system specifically for the freight industry. It’s quick and easy and means that there is now no reason for drivers to struggle with the effects of this disorder or for managers to plead ignorance about a condition that could be deadly for the sufferer as well as for innocent road users.”

Set up to investigate the prevalence and effects of OSA within vigilance critical industries in the UK, SASA is the Transport Safety Group of Respironics Inc., a leading developer, manufacturer and distributor of products and programmes for the global sleep and respiratory markets.

Respironics -SASA says that anyone affected by five or more of the following might be at risk of OSA:

Anyone concerned about OSA should call 0870 770 3600 or email:osa@Respironics.com for information or to arrange screenings.

Respironics is a leading developer, manufacturer and distributor of innovative products and programs that serve the global sleep and respiratory markets. Focusing on emerging market needs, the Company is committed to providing valued solutions to help improve outcomes for patients, clinicians and health care providers. Respironics markets its products in over 125 countries and employs more than 3,800 associates worldwide. Further information can be found on the Company’s Web site: www.respironics.com .

STUDY NOTES:

• SASA research was carried out amongst 940 active UK HGV drivers
• Study Statistics were prepared by The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
• The research study protocol ethics were approved by Cranfield University
• The most effective treatment for OSA is PAP (positive airway pressure). Respironics has introduced the MOST® (Management of Sleep Therapy) service to provide industrial workplace screening, diagnosis, therapy and ongoing compliance management of individuals diagnosed with OSA.