One in Three Americans with Sleep Apnea Goes Untreated, National Sleep Foundation Warns of Serious Health Risks

A recent Understanding Sleep Apnea survey by the National Sleep Foundation revealed a growing problem in the United States. According to the survey, nearly one in three Americans diagnosed with sleep apnea are not receiving any form of treatment, even though most reportedly understand the severity of the condition. The survey also looked at how many Americans have sleep apnea and found that nearly four in ten adults are at increased risk for the condition.

Researchers reported that while 88 percent of adults recognize sleep apnea as a significant medical concern, many still avoid treatment because they feel limited to options like CPAP therapy. In reality, several effective alternatives exist, including oral appliance therapy.

The survey also showed that only one in four adults could name even a few health risks of untreated sleep apnea. The condition has clear links to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and depression. These findings highlight a major gap in public awareness and treatment access. For New York patients who struggle with CPAP therapy or feel discouraged by previous treatment attempts, Silent Night Therapy offers comfortable, reliable oral devices that promote better sleep.

How Many Americans Have Sleep Apnea?

There are an estimated 30 million people with sleep apnea in America, according to the American Medical Association. Only about six million of those have been diagnosed. The condition causes repeated pauses in breathing throughout the night, which can lead to decreased oxygen levels, disrupted rest, and chronic fatigue. Over time, untreated sleep apnea can raise the risk of serious health problems, including high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease.

Sleep apnea often goes unnoticed because its symptoms appear mild at first: snoring, morning headaches, or daytime tiredness. Without diagnosis, however, these early warning signs can progress into long-term complications that affect both physical and emotional health.

The good news is that sleep apnea can be effectively managed once properly identified. Silent Night Therapy helps patients confirm whether they have sleep apnea with at-home sleep tests and provides oral treatment appliances designed for comfort and results. With the right treatment, patients can rediscover restful sleep and protect their overall health.

Known vs. Undiagnosed Cases of Sleep Apnea in the US

Sleep apnea affects both diagnosed and undiagnosed individuals across the country. The National Sleep Foundation reports that nearly four in ten adults are at an increased risk of developing the disorder, and millions more live with it without knowing. Even among Americans diagnosed with sleep apnea, about one in three still go without treatment. That means a large portion of the population continues to experience interrupted breathing, oxygen deprivation, and restless nights without relief.

Undiagnosed sleep apnea in the US often hides behind common symptoms like snoring, fatigue, or morning headaches. Many people assume these signs are harmless, but they can signal a serious condition that affects cardiovascular and mental health. The difference between known and undiagnosed cases often comes down to awareness and access to care. Silent Night Therapy is here to close that gap with simple at-home sleep testing to identify sleep apnea and effective, comfortable treatment through oral appliance therapy. With early diagnosis, better sleep and better health are possible.

Why Many Americans with Sleep Apnea Still Go Untreated

Many Americans who know they have sleep apnea still avoid treatment, and recent research suggests why. Despite the prevalence of sleep apnea in the US, the National Sleep Foundation found that 78 percent of adults are unaware of the full range of treatment options available. Most know about CPAP therapy but aren’t aware of other solutions that can help them sleep more soundly. Some patients stop using CPAP machines because they find the devices uncomfortable or inconvenient. Others never return for follow-up care after diagnosis and end up leaving their conditions unmanaged.

Misconceptions about sleep apnea also keep people from seeking help. Some believe it only affects older adults or those who snore loudly. In reality, sleep apnea impacts people of all ages and health backgrounds. Silent Night Therapy offers a different approach with oral appliance therapy—a proven, comfortable alternative for those who cannot tolerate CPAP. With proper diagnosis and a custom-fitted device, patients can breathe easily through the night and protect their long-term health without the challenges of traditional treatment methods.

Real Relief Starts Here

If you struggle with snoring, daytime fatigue, or restless nights, it’s time to find out whether sleep apnea is the cause. Silent Night Therapy offers convenient at-home testing and personalized treatment plans that fit your needs. Call us today at (631) 983-2463 or contact us online to speak with our team and learn more about your options for comfortable, effective sleep apnea care.