Noteboom The Law Firm

Sleep Apnea on the Rise Among Veterans

June 12, 2010 - There has been extensive coverage of all types of disabilities, disorders, and diseases affecting veterans. One disorder we hear very little about but has become a significant problem among veterans is sleep apnea. The last 2 years have seen an increase of 61% in the number of veterans receiving disability payments for sleep apnea. The total amount of benefits being paid out every year now totals more than $500 million.

Sleep apnea causes sleeping people to struggle for breath as well as wake up often. While it has been linked to such things as heart disease, the number one risk factor is obesity. According to a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) sleep expert, other contributing factors include inhaling smoke and dust.

Approximately 20% of veterans suffer from sleep apnea compared to only 5% of the general population. Accordingly, veterans are given much better benefits for sleep apnea through the VA than are offered through private sector insurance. It is unlikely any civilian work environments produce conditions that could cause sleep apnea.

Because of more awareness surrounding this disorder, more veterans suffering from sleep apnea are seeking help. Because more veterans are seeking help, the amount of claims filed for disability compensation linked to sleep apnea has jumped considerably:

• In 2008, 39,145 veterans claimed sleep apnea as a disability compared to 2010 that number rose to 63,118 veterans; and
• In 2008, $306 million was being paid out in disability claims for sleep apnea compared to 2010 where a minimum $534 million.

 While some veterans may be predisposed to develop sleep apnea, this is not completely inclusive. Many veterans do not develop the disorder until returning from deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Whatever the reason the apnea is there, it is important to seek help at your local VA medical center.