Mumbai: Oxygen Times has launched a campaign titled ‘Don’t Ignore the Snore’ to raise awareness about the health risks associated with sleep apnea. This initiative aims to educate the public on recognising the signs of sleep apnea and the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment.

Sleep apnea is a common condition characterised by interrupted breathing during sleep. A study by AIIMS found that about 104 million Indians suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, yet many remain unaware. Symptoms like loud snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness are often mistakenly seen as harmless.

“Undiagnosed sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke,” said Oxygen Times co-founder & CEO Pranav Kaistha. “It’s crucial for individuals who snore or experience persistent fatigue to understand that these could be warning signs of a more serious condition.”

“In India, millions are living with undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea. Snoring is not a sign of sound sleep; it is actually a problem. That’s how we named the campaign—‘Don’t Ignore the Snore.’ Through this initiative, we hope to empower individuals to take control of their health. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve quality of life,” added Kaistha. “Together, we can break the stigma around snoring and sleep apnea and promote healthier sleep for all.”

Sleep apnea is often misunderstood or ignored, but it can have serious consequences. Anyone experiencing snoring, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, or fatigue, must consult a pulmonologist and get a sleep study done.