The Clinical Significance of Sleepiness

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has declared sleepiness a critical public health issue, calling it a key patient-reported outcome linked to serious health risks and reduced quality of life. Excessive sleepiness affects one-third of U.S. adults and may signal underlying conditions such as sleep apnea, mood disorders, or neurological disease.

The Academy urges more research that prioritizes sleepiness as a primary outcome and the development of reliable biomarkers to improve treatment. Given its connection to cognitive decline, accidents, and chronic illness, addressing sleepiness is essential for health equity, patient safety, and effective care—particularly in underserved and high-risk populations. Read the statement here.