Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) Treatment Experiences and Patient Perspectives
This survey conducted by Quantum Research Group LLC and commissioned by Incannex gathered insights from 340 individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The study explores their experiences, satisfaction levels, and openness to alternative treatment options. The results shed light on the effectiveness and challenges of current OSA therapies.
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Over 50% of people diagnosed with OSA are not satisfied with their current treatment.
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61% of OSA patients who use a PAP machine say it disturbs their sleep multiple times a week, and nearly 70% report that the PAP machine is uncomfortable.
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69% of OSA patients said they’d be willing to switch to a prescribed pill-form treatment, with ease of use being the top reason to switch (84%).
Key Takeaways
Current OSA Treatments and Patient Satisfaction
Understanding the primary treatments for OSA and their impact on patient satisfaction, quality of life, and quality of sleep is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of current treatment options.
The data shows that while positive airway pressure (PAP) devices are the most commonly used treatment for OSA, patient satisfaction is mixed. A significant 53% of patients are either dissatisfied or neutral about their treatment. Additionally, 37% of patients reported no change or a worsening in their overall quality of life, and 31% experienced similar results regarding their quality of sleep. These findings highlight substantial areas of discontent, indicating the need for better treatment solutions and more personalized approaches to improve patient outcomes.
Patient Experiences and Issues with PAP Device Usage
This section explores the various challenges and compliance issues faced by patients using PAP devices for OSA treatment. It dives into the frequency of device usage, the disturbances caused by the devices, and the common annoyances reported by users.
The findings highlight several key issues that OSA patients encounter with their PAP devices. A significant portion of patients do not use their devices consistently, and many experience frequent sleep disturbances. While 90% of patients use their PAP machine every night, nearly 30% take it off and are not compliant with the treatment. Common annoyances such as discomfort from the mask and dry mouth contribute to these challenges.​
Patient Willingness to Switch to Pill-Form Treatment for OSA
This section examines the openness of OSA patients to transitioning from their current treatment methods to a prescribed pill-form treatment. It explores the factors influencing their willingness to switch and the primary concerns they have regarding this potential change.
​The data reveals a strong inclination among OSA patients to consider switching to a pill-form treatment, with the majority citing ease of use and less disruption to sleep as significant motivators. However, concerns about side effects and costs remain prominent barriers.
Promising Future for OSA Patients
The survey results highlight the mixed experiences of OSA patients with current treatment options, emphasizing the significant potential of pill-form treatments. Many patients are willing to consider a pill-form alternative due to its ease of use and less-disruptive nature. Addressing concerns about side effects, costs, and effectiveness can pave the way for broader acceptance and improved patient outcomes. These insights underscore the promising future of pill-form treatments in enhancing the quality of life and satisfaction for OSA patients.
Methodology
Quantum Research Group LLC surveyed 340 individuals diagnosed with OSA about their current treatments and experiences with OSA. Fifty-two percent of those surveyed were men, and 48% were women. The survey was conducted May 28-29, 2024.
Fair Use Statement
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