What is the scope of the problem? In 1993, the National Commission on Sleep Disorders Research reported to the U.S. Congress that 40 million Americans suffer from chronic disorders of sleep including narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and the insomnias of which the majority of those affected are undiagnosed and untreated.
An additional 20 - 30 million individuals experience intermittent sleep problems due to work and lifestyle factors. The consequences of these disorders span all aspects of the community including industry, transportation, health care, education, family and social life.
It is estimated that the population with sleep disorders will grow as the population ages.
The 1998 National Sleep Foundation's Omnibus Sleep in America Poll found adults woefully ignorant about sleep with 86% failing a Sleep I.Q. Test. Significant findings included: 37% report sleepiness during the day that interferes with their daily activity; 57% report driving drowsy in the last year while 23% report falling asleep at the wheel; and 26% believe that career success and adequate sleep are incompatible.
Clearly there is a need for action. The time is right for Froedtert Hospital Sleep Disorder Program to emerge as a regional and national resource in managing patients with sleep disorders.