Sleep apnoea

National Quality Registry for Sleep Apnoea (SESAR)

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) may be found in approximately 10 % of women and 20 % of men aged 30-60 years.

Moderate-to-severe OSA is associated with daytime sleepiness in approximately 20 % of patients. Sleepiness-related accidents and cardiovascular disease (hypertension, ischaemic heart disease and stroke) are overrepresented. The mechanistic links between OSA and these complications include fragmented sleep, nocturnal hypoxia and activation of the autonomic nervous system. OSA has also been strongly associated with the metabolic syndrome.

OSA can be effectively treated and current therapies include pressure based ventilation via a face mask (CPAP) or intraoral dental devices. Upper airway surgery is restricted to patients with upper airway narrowing, e.g. secondary to large tonsils. Reduction of body weight reduces OSA in most cases and provides a positive effect on cardio-metabolic risk factors.

SESAR is a quality registry congaing patients with a confirmed OSA diagnosis. The registry addresses multiple aspects of OSA management including diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. Approximately 10 000 new patients annually are entered into the registry along with an equal number new therapy starts and follow-up visits. The interactive SESAR web page lists various quality markers defined in the SESAR including lead time from referral to diagnosis and therapy, reported comorbidity and number of interactions with a physician in association with diagnostic procedures.

SESAR currently serves approximately 60 reporting centers witch roughly corresponds to 50% of all new patients diagnosed and treated in the country. The National Board of Health and Welfare as well as several counties continuously use statistics provided by SESAR and data from the registry has been presented at national and international meetings and conferences.

Note: Variable lists are updated on a regular basis and should therefore be seen as preliminary. For the latest version, please contact the registry.

Contact information

Find contact information on the registry’s website.