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Sleep Apnea Risk Calculator (STOP-Bang)

Assess your risk of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with the scientifically validated STOP-Bang questionnaire.

Sources: Chung F et al. -- STOP-Bang Questionnaire, Anesthesiology 2008 · American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) · NIH -- Sleep Apnea Information

How to Assess Your Sleep Apnea Risk

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is one of the most common and underdiagnosed sleep disorders. It is estimated that over 1 billion people worldwide are affected, but the majority remain undiagnosed. Loud snoring and daytime sleepiness are the main warning signs.

The STOP-Bang Questionnaire

The STOP-Bang questionnaire is the most widely used screening tool in the world for identifying individuals at risk of OSA. Developed by Professor Frances Chung at the University of Toronto in 2008, it has been validated in dozens of clinical studies with a sensitivity exceeding 90% for moderate-to-severe OSA.

The name is an acronym of the 8 factors assessed:

  • S -- Snoring: Do you snore loudly? (audible through closed doors)
  • T -- Tired: Do you feel tired or sleepy during the day?
  • O -- Observed: Has anyone observed you stop breathing during sleep?
  • P -- Pressure: Are you being treated for high blood pressure?
  • B -- BMI: Is your body mass index greater than 35?
  • A -- Age: Are you over 50 years old?
  • N -- Neck: Is your neck circumference greater than 40 cm?
  • G -- Gender: Are you male?

How to Interpret the Score

Each positive answer scores 1 point, for a total of 0 to 8:

  • 0-2 points: low risk of OSA
  • 3-4 points: intermediate risk -- medical evaluation recommended
  • 5-8 points: high risk -- polysomnography recommended

What to Do If Your Score Is High

If your STOP-Bang score is 3 or higher, it is important to speak with your doctor. Diagnostic tests include:

  1. Overnight polysomnography: gold standard test performed in a sleep lab
  2. Home cardiorespiratory monitoring: simpler alternative for non-complex cases
  3. Overnight pulse oximetry: first-level screening

Modifiable Risk Factors

Some OSA risk factors can be improved through lifestyle changes:

  • Weight loss: a 10% reduction in weight can halve OSA severity
  • Avoid alcohol before bedtime: alcohol relaxes airway muscles
  • Sleep on your side: the supine position worsens apneas
  • Quit smoking: smoking increases airway inflammation

If your BMI is elevated, start there. Good rest is also essential for cardiovascular health and physical performance. To monitor sleep quality, try our sleep cycle calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?▼
OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea) is a breathing disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, caused by the collapse of the upper airways. The main symptoms are loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, nighttime awakenings with a choking sensation, and morning headaches.
How does the STOP-Bang questionnaire work?▼
The STOP-Bang questionnaire is a scientifically validated screening tool that evaluates 8 risk factors: Snoring, Tiredness, Observed apnea, Pressure (hypertension), BMI > 35, Age > 50, Neck > 40 cm, and Gender (male). Each factor present scores 1 point. A score of 0-2 indicates low risk, 3-4 intermediate, and 5-8 high.
Does the STOP-Bang questionnaire replace polysomnography?▼
No, the STOP-Bang questionnaire is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one. The definitive diagnosis of OSA requires a polysomnography (sleep study in a lab) or home cardiorespiratory monitoring. The STOP-Bang helps identify who should undergo these tests, with a sensitivity exceeding 90% for moderate-to-severe OSA.