STOP-BANG Sleep Apnea Screen
Validated 8-question sleep apnea risk
STOP-BANG questionnaire (validated):
Each Yes = 1 point. Public domain. Mnemonic: STOP (Snoring, Tired, Observed apnea, blood Pressure) + BANG (BMI, Age, Neck, Gender).
Snoring — Do you snore loudly (loud enough to be heard through closed doors)?
Tired — Do you often feel tired, fatigued, or sleepy during the daytime?
Observed — Has anyone observed you stop breathing during your sleep?
Pressure — Do you have or are you being treated for high blood pressure?
BMI greater than 35?
Age over 50 years old?
Neck circumference greater than 40 cm (16 inches)?
Gender — Are you male?
Where to get tested: 🇺🇸 Sleep medicine doctor referral · 🇩🇪 DE: Schlaflabor (Klinik) — Krankenkasse zahlt bei klin. Verdacht · 🇬🇧 NHS GP → sleep clinic. Treatment (CPAP) often life-changing for moderate-severe.
📚 Learn more — how it works, FAQ & guide Click to expand
Learn more — how it works, FAQ & guide
Click to expand
STOP-BANG Sleep Apnea Screening
STOP-BANG validated 8-item screen for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Higher sensitivity than other tools. Used in pre-surgical screening + primary care. Public domain.
How to use this tool
- 1
8 yes/no questions
STOP-BANG mnemonic.
- 2
Risk score
0-2 low, 3-4 intermediate, 5+ high.
- 3
Next step
Sleep doctor for polysomnography.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does sleep apnea matter?
Untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): 2-3× cardiovascular risk, daytime fatigue, accident risk. ~25% of adults have moderate-severe OSA. Treatable with CPAP or oral appliance — life-changing for users.
Symptoms beyond snoring?
Daytime sleepiness despite "8 hours sleep", witnessed breathing pauses, gasping/choking awakenings, morning headaches, mood changes, focus problems. Bedpartner often notices first.
How is it diagnosed?
Polysomnography (in-lab) or home sleep apnea test (HSAT). Measures AHI (apneas + hypopneas per hour). 5-15 mild, 15-30 moderate, 30+ severe. Insurance covers when prescribed.
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