What is Sleep Apnea Syndrome (SAS)?

Sleep Apnea Syndrome (SAS) is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last for a few seconds to minutes and may occur many times an hour.

Is snoring the only sign of SAS?

No, snoring is a common sign, but not the only one. SAS can also occur without noticeable snoring, especially in individuals with certain physical characteristics. Other signs include stopping breathing during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, dry mouth upon waking, and frequent awakenings during the night.

What is "hidden SAS"?

"Hidden SAS" refers to cases of Sleep Apnea Syndrome where snoring is not a prominent symptom, making it difficult for the individual or those around them to recognize the condition. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Why is early detection of SAS important?

Untreated SAS can lead to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. It can also cause excessive daytime sleepiness, increasing the risk of accidents, particularly while driving or operating machinery.

How can SAS be detected if there is no snoring?

If there is no snoring, SAS might be detected through other symptoms like pauses in breathing during sleep, severe daytime sleepiness, or if family members or cohabitants notice these issues and suggest seeking medical advice.

"No Snoring Means It's Okay" - A Misconception? The Existence of Sleep Apnea Syndrome Without Snoring, Unknown to About Half of Respondents

Published Mar 30, 2026 7:34 PM ・ Updated Jun 2, 2026 1:01 PM ・ 5 min read ・ Source: PR TIMES

A survey on the awareness of Sleep Apnea Syndrome (SAS) without snoring and the importance of early detection.

The assumption that "I don't snore, so I don't have Sleep Apnea Syndrome (SAS)" might be leading to the oversight of a serious illness. The General Incorporated Association for Snoring and Apnea Improvement conducted an awareness survey on "Sleep Apnea Syndrome Without Snoring" targeting 200 men and women nationwide. The results revealed that approximately 44.5% of people were unaware that "SAS is possible even without snoring." This survey explores hints for visualizing the existence of "hidden SAS," which is difficult to self-diagnose, and for leading to early detection through the awareness of those around and small everyday signs.

Survey Background

Sleep Apnea Syndrome (SAS) is a condition that, if left untreated, not only increases the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease but can also cause accidents due to severe daytime sleepiness. While "loud snoring" is generally known as a typical sign, in reality, depending on body type, bone structure, and throat condition, snoring may not be noticeable. This survey was conducted with the aim of clarifying the extent to which the misconception of "no snoring = no worries" is prevalent and how SAS can be detected through signs other than snoring.

Survey Summary

・Approximately 45% (44.5%) responded that they "did not know" about the existence of "SAS without snoring."

・The most recognized sign of SAS was "stopping breathing during sleep" at 26.1%, followed by "snoring" at 19.9%.

・Regarding discovery methods for cases without snoring, about 1 in 4 people (27.5%) cited "指摘 by family/cohabitants."

・The most important factor to avoid overlooking the possibility of SAS was considered to be "not dismissing指摘s from family/cohabitants" at 25.0%.

・When informed about the possibility of "SAS without snoring," 82.0% responded that they "would like to be tested (including somewhat)."

Detailed Data

Q1. What do you think are the signs of "Sleep Apnea Syndrome (SAS)"?

・Stopping breathing during sleep: 26.1%

・Snoring during sleep: 19.9%

・Severe daytime sleepiness: 12.7%

・Dry mouth or throat upon waking: 9.8%

・Waking up multiple times during the night: 8.5%

・Other: 23.0%

→ Awareness of "stopping breathing" and "snoring," which are symbolic of SAS, is high.

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Source: PR TIMES
Category: News

"No Snoring Means It's Okay" - A Misconception? The Existence of Sleep Apnea Syndrome Without Snoring, Unknown to About Half of Respondents

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