Sleep apnea compromises far more than a good night’s rest – 2 neuroscientists outline the risks and the need for better diagnosis

This condition’s prevalence is rising worldwide, and it is very treatable, but disparities in access to care remain.

By: Erika Yamazaki, Northwestern University and Ken A. Paller, Northwestern University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: May 6, 2026

Words: 1,192

Last Updated: 2 months, 3 weeks ago

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By Erika Yamazaki, Northwestern University and Ken A. Paller, Northwestern University

Annual medical checkups typically cover the basics: diet, exercise and mental state. Surprisingly, many primary care providers fail to ask about one of the fundamental contributors to well-being: sleep.

We are two neuroscientists who study sleep and memory. We have both experienced this omission with our own doctors, even though we represent different ages and genders.

When asked, almost everyone …

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