Sleep Disorders: Prevalence, Costs & Impact on Health in Europe

Brain disorders, and the conditions affecting the body as a whole, have significant impacts on health and society. Recent research highlights a widespread and often underestimated issue: sleep disorders. A new study reveals that sleep disturbances are more common in Europe than previously thought, affecting a substantial portion of the adult population and carrying a significant economic burden.

The Prevalence of Sleep Disorders

Three primary sleep disorders – obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless legs syndrome – collectively affect 31 percent of adults across Europe. This finding underscores the urgent need for greater awareness and attention to sleep health.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by repeated reductions or complete pauses in breathing during sleep. These breathing interruptions can occur hundreds of times per night and last for minutes at a time.

Insomnia

Insomnia encompasses difficulties falling asleep and/or staying asleep. This condition can be triggered by stress, anxiety, hormonal imbalances, or digestive issues, but can also be a symptom of another underlying medical condition. Insomnia is categorized as chronic (occurring regularly for at least a month), intermittent (occurring periodically), or transient (lasting only a few nights).

Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sleep-related movement disorder. A key symptom is an irresistible urge to move the legs, particularly when at rest or attempting to sleep. This urge is often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations in the legs, such as tingling, burning, or pulling. These sensations can significantly disrupt sleep.

Did You Know? The economic damage caused by sleep disorders annually is estimated to be extremely high, with direct medical costs accounting for 48 percent of the total.

Sleep and sleep disorders have substantial effects on both brain and body health, and are linked to neurological and psychiatric conditions. The impact extends beyond the individual, affecting society and the economy as a whole.

Economic Impact of Sleep Disorders

A recent study, involving Austrian neurologist Thomas Berger, examined the frequency, distribution, and causes of sleep disorders across 47 European countries. The research team also analysed the economic costs associated with these disorders in 30 countries.

The analysis revealed that the annual damage caused by sleep disorders amounts to hundreds of billions of euros. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most costly, responsible for approximately 184 billion euros in damages annually, followed by insomnia (158 billion euros) and restless legs syndrome (79 billion euros). These costs correlate with the prevalence of each condition.

The prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea is highest, affecting an estimated 18 percent of the adult population. Insomnia affects approximately 10 percent of adults, while restless legs syndrome impacts 3 percent. Narkolepsie affects 0.03 percent and REM-sleep-behavior disorder affects 0.009 percent of the population.

Expert Insight: The study’s findings emphasize a critical gap in public health strategies, as the significant economic and health burdens of sleep disorders are not adequately addressed given the generally overlooked role of sleep health.

“The unexpectedly high prevalence and the considerable economic burden of sleep disorders stand in contrast to the generally neglected role of sleep health and sleep disorders in public health strategies,” the scientists wrote, calling for increased attention to these problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three most common sleep disorders in Europe?

The three most common sleep disorders in Europe are obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless legs syndrome.

What percentage of adults are affected by obstructive sleep apnea?

An estimated 18 percent of the adult population is affected by obstructive sleep apnea.

What portion of the economic costs associated with sleep disorders are considered direct costs?

48 percent of the economic costs associated with sleep disorders are considered direct costs, encompassing medical treatments like doctor visits, medications, and sleep lab stays.

As awareness of the prevalence and economic impact of sleep disorders grows, will public health initiatives begin to prioritize sleep health alongside other critical health concerns?