STOP-BANG is a widely used screening tool for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of complete or partial obstructions of the upper airway during sleep. This tool is simple, easy to use, and helps identify individuals who are at higher risk for OSA. Each letter in “STOP-BANG” stands for a specific risk factor:
- S – Snoring: Loud and frequent snoring is a common symptom of OSA.
- T – Tiredness: Feeling excessively tired or sleepy during the day, even after a full night’s sleep, can indicate OSA.
- O – Observed Apneas: Instances where breathing stops or pauses during sleep, as reported by a bed partner or observed in a sleep study.
- P – Pressure (High Blood Pressure): Hypertension is often associated with OSA.
- B – BMI (Body Mass Index): A BMI over 35 kg/m² increases the risk. Obesity is a significant risk factor for OSA.
- A – Age: Being older than 50 years increases the risk.
- N – Neck Circumference: A large neck circumference (greater than 40 cm or 15.75 inches in men, and greater than 35 cm or 13.75 inches in women) is a risk factor, as it may indicate more fat deposits in the upper airway.
- G – Gender: Males are at a higher risk for OSA than females.
The STOP-BANG questionnaire is a quick and effective way to screen for OSA. If a patient answers “Yes” to three or more questions, they are considered to be at high risk for OSA and should undergo further evaluation, often involving a sleep study (polysomnography) for definitive diagnosis.
This tool is particularly useful in preoperative assessments, as undiagnosed or untreated OSA can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. It’s also valuable in general practice to identify patients who might need further sleep assessment.