Sex Differences in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) for many years has been thought to be a disease of men, but research performed more recently has revealed women are at significant risk for OSA as well as the morbidity associated with leaving it untreated. There are estimates that up to 90% of women with severe sleep apnea are not being diagnosed and that if diagnosed, they are less likely to be treated. This article will explore the sex differences in OSA, specifically addressing areas of prevalence, phenotypes, diagnostic criteria, and treatment.