New Study Establishes Model for Sleep Research in Transportation Workers

Latest Study Uses Cost Effective Technique to Identify Sleep Apnea in Transportation Workers Without a Sleep Center.

It would be prudent to institute a screening program for EDS in all workers that are in safety sensitive positions. Employers will see a drastic improvement in their employees' productivity as well as health benefits

Philadelphia, PA (PRWEB) January 12, 2009 -- Published in the most recent issue of the Journal of Health & Productivity, University Services Sleep Diagnostic & Treatment Centers out of Philadelphia, PA, accomplished a model to evaluate the risk of Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS) in safety sensitive positions within the railroad industry.

Excessive Daytime Sleepiness is most commonly caused by Obstructive Sleep Apnea, a sleep disorder that occurs when the airway is constricted while sleeping, causing a loss in blood oxygen levels that result in waking numerous times throughout the night to keep the airway open. OSA is a major contributing factor in the number of fatal car crashes each year, contributes to poor work performance, generates irritability and hostility toward others, impairs memory and concentration, and is as prevalent as adult diabetes and asthma.

The model used a Health Risk Assessment (HRA) to screen for EDS and confirmed using an ambulatory device that does not require an overnight stay in a Sleep Disorders Center. The results of the study found the risk of OSA among participants to be 35-40%, higher than the general population (2-4%), and from those found to be at risk, 80% confirmed positive to have OSA by the study's criteria. Each participant followed the model exactly, with no failures.

"It would be prudent to institute a screening program for EDS in all workers that are in safety sensitive positions. Employers will see a drastic improvement in their employees' productivity as well as health benefits," commented Dr. Randy Blake Barnett, who conducted the study.

Employers, occupational medicine providers, and federal regulators are all beginning to investigate the prevalence of EDS in the workforce. By adapting a screening and confirming model with proven success like that of University Services, companies can ensure their employees are sleeping better at night, and being more alert during the day.

About University Services:
University Services, a multi-specialty medical services organization, provides sleep diagnostic and treatment at multiple sleep centers located throughout southeastern Pennsylvania, southern New Jersey, and northern Delaware. Each offer state-of-the-art overnight testing facilities with private bedrooms, bathrooms, and the comforts of home. Convenient at-home testing options are also available.

A similar press release by University Services discussing this topic may be found here.

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