SEMINAR: Sleep Disorders - an Indian Perspective

Abstract Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by repeated collapse of the upper airway during sleep. It affects 4 - 9% of the adult population. Obesity is a major risk factor for OSA. Research and awareness of OSA is slowly but steadily on the rise and so are the co-morbid conditions associated with OSA such as metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. The Information Technology (IT) boom in India has resulted in improved economic status for the country but this has been accompanied by increased consumption of junk food and a more sedentary lifestyle - changes which are driving an obesity epidemic in India. This epidemic will result in an increased incidence of OSA and its associated co-morbid conditions. This presentation will highlight the current status of sleep medicine and sleep research India, with a particular focus on OSA.