30/06/2025

MONDAY | JUNE 30, 2025

HEALTH 26

Crucial to deal with sleep apnoea early M ANY struggle with poor sleep, often without realising that underlying conditions such as sleep o Common condition poses serious risks medical application. But can these functions really be relied on to track sleep disorders such as sleep apnoea?

While accessible to anyone with a compatible device and useful in raising awareness about sleep health, smartwatches are not a replacement for professional medical advice. If you receive an alert, it is important to follow up with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. Sleep apnoea can be categorised into several types: 0 Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) – where throat muscles relax and block the flow of air into the lungs 0 Central Sleep Apnoea (CSA) – when the brain does not send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing 0 Treatment-Emergent Central Sleep Apnoea – where someone initially diagnosed with OSA develops CSA during treatment for OSA. Proper diagnosis is essential to identify the type and guide effective treatment. A sleep study, also known as polysomnography, is the most common method for diagnosing sleep apnoea. It provides a comprehensive assessment of sleep patterns and physiological responses during rest. This test is conducted in a dedicated sleep lab where patients stay overnight. A range of vital indicators are monitored, including brain activity, breathing patterns, oxygen saturation levels, heart rate and body movements, to detect abnormal pauses in breathing and determine the severity of the condition. A home sleep test is also available, which involves wearing a portable device that monitors basic functions such as airflow, oxygen levels and breathing effort. However, home tests may not capture the full range of sleep-related issues or differentiate between types of apnoea. As such, an in-hospital sleep study remains the gold standard, especially for individuals with complex symptoms or other medical conditions. Treating sleep apnoea Sleep apnoea is a highly treatable

apnoea may be the cause. Most sufferers remain undiagnosed, with up to 80% of cases unnoticed. Timely detection is vital, as moderate-to-severe sleep apnoea significantly raises the risk of long-term health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. Sleep apnoea is a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses, sometimes lasting 10 seconds or more, can happen dozens or even hundreds of times a night, reducing oxygen flow and disrupting rest. It is more common than many people realise, with estimates suggesting that about 30% of Malaysian adults are affected – and many of them may be unaware of their condition. Common signs include loud snoring, waking with gasping or choking sensations, daytime fatigue, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, mood changes or irritability. However, many people with sleep apnoea are unaware of the condition, as symptoms often occur during sleep and can be subtle or misattributed to other causes. Diagnosing sleep apnoea Since sleep behaviours are difficult to observe, some smartwatches and other wearable devices have recently introduced sleep monitoring functions. Consumers are increasingly using these devices to detect signs of sleep apnoea by monitoring patterns in breathing, heart rate and oxygen levels during sleep, providing early alerts that can prompt medical evaluation. Earlier this year, the Health Ministry, through the Medical Device Authority, approved the Sleep Apnoea Notification Feature of a leading smartwatch brand as an over-the-counter mobile

Loud snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnoea and can strain relationships. – FREEPIKPIC

Sleep apnoea is a common yet underdiagnosed condition with serious long-term health risks. While clinical sleep studies remain essential for diagnosis, wearable devices are early alert tools for individuals who may not realise they are at risk. Combining smart technology with medical diagnostics allow individuals to have more tools to detect sleep apnoea early, supporting better sleep quality and improved overall health.

through a mask worn during sleep, keeping the airway open and preventing pauses in breathing. While it may take some time to adjust to, CPAP therapy has been proven to greatly improve sleep quality, energy levels and overall health. Alternatively, oral appliances – similar to a mouthguard – can be prescribed for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnoea. These devices reposition the jaw or tongue to help keep the airway clear. In certain cases where structural issues such as enlarged tonsils, a deviated nasal septum or jaw abnormalities contribute to the condition, surgical intervention may be considered.

condition, and early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of long-term complications. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual based on the type and severity of their sleep apnoea as well as any underlying health issues. In many cases, lifestyle modifications are the first line of defence – losing excess weight, quitting smoking, managing allergies and avoiding alcohol can help reduce airway obstruction during sleep. For moderate to severe cases, the most effective treatment is the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. This device delivers a steady stream of air

This article is contributed by Subang Jaya Medical Centre consultant ear, nose and throat surgeon Dr Revadi Govindaraju.

Taiwan Health & Wellness Hub launches in Malaysia THE Taiwan Health & Wellness Hub (THWH) opened last Tuesday at Menara Matrade, Kuala Lumpur, integrating medical expertise, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and professional resources to

address Malaysia’s growing needs in primary care, infection control and elderly care,” said Malaysia Medical Devices Manufacturers Association president Johari Abu Kasim. Located on Level 3 of Menara Matrade, THWH features an exhibition of advanced medical and wellness solutions from Taiwan. The hub has appointed a project manager to provide comprehensive, one-stop services. These include market analysis, buyer engagement, brand promotion and consultation – enabling Malaysian businesses to better understand and connect with the showcased Taiwanese solutions for long-term collaboration. THWH will focus on Taiwan’s strengths in AI diagnostics, smart medical devices, nutraceuticals and aesthetic medicine – driving R&D, technology transfer and cross-border investment to strengthen the Taiwan-Malaysia value chain and support Taiwan’s global health ambitions.

position Taiwan as a reliable and forward-looking global health brand. Established by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (Taitra), this initiative is designed to deepen Taiwan-Malaysia cooperation in smart healthcare, biotechnology and medical services, showcasing Taiwan’s strength as a global health innovation leader. “The launch of the THWH marks a new chapter in Taiwan-Malaysia cooperation – enabling deeper business engagement, partnerships and shared growth across Asean and beyond,” said Taitra president and CEO Simon Wang. “The diverse solutions on display – from AI-assisted diagnostics and portable bone density analysers to UVC LED disinfection modules – directly

Wang (first from right) tours the featured brands at the Taiwan Health & Wellness Hub with VIPs.