Page 52 - TT Mag Oct 2023 Digital Edition

SAFETY

statistics from a Lancet study Research findings underscore curb road traffic accidents related
estimate that approximately 28 the undeniable link between OSA to sleep disorders. Countries
million individuals suffer from this and road traffic accidents. Studies like Australia, for example, have
disorder. Despite its widespread reveal that patients with OSA are embraced proactive measures by
presence, OSA often goes 2.3–2.6 times more likely to be implementing regular tests to assess
undiagnosed, creating a breeding involved in accidents compared to the fitness of commercial vehicle
ground for road accidents. the general population. Moreover, drivers. These tests, occurring once
driver inattention, often stemming every three years for drivers aged
In the United States and the 49 or under and annually for older
United Kingdom, special policies from untreated sleep-disordered drivers, ensure that individuals
safeguard road users, especially breathing (SDB), contributes to with suspected sleep apnea are
commercial drivers and pilots, from up to 20% of accidents, equating promptly diagnosed and treated
sleep disorders. These nations to the perils of driving under the before returning to driving.
recognize the inherent dangers of influence of alcohol.
OSA and prioritize road safety. For professional drivers, the risks In stark contrast, India currently
The UK’s Driver and Vehicle are even more pronounced. Taxi lacks adequate awareness and
policies addressing this issue. It is
Licensing Agency (DVLA) provides and truck drivers with OSA face imperative that the government
guidelines for assessing drivers’ a staggering 300% increased risk spearheads a comprehensive
fitness to drive with OSA, requiring of road traffic accidents. In-depth sleep awareness campaign to
regular medical assessments and studies conducted at esteemed educate the masses about the
effective OSA treatment, like CPAP institutions like AIIMS and King significance of healthy sleep.
therapy, for commercial drivers. George’s Medical University have Furthermore, given that unhealthy
shown that over 20% of all road
In the US, the Federal Motor accident victims suffer from SDB sleep is a leading cause of non-
Carrier Safety Administration and OSA. Even more concerning, communicable diseases like
(FMCSA) has guidelines for a significant 23% of truck drivers diabetes, policies related to sleep
commercial drivers, mandating are plagued by sleep deprivation, must be included and monitored.
regular medical examinations that adding to the potential for fatal By raising awareness,
include OSA screening. Suspected mishaps. implementing regular testing
cases undergo diagnostic testing, protocols, and advocating for
and treatment compliance is Government comprehensive sleep policies, we
monitored. Determining fitness to Intervention: A can take significant strides toward
drive considers OSA management Wake-Up Call reducing road accidents, saving
and prevention of daytime lives, and ensuring the safety of all
sleepiness. Urgent steps are needed to road users.

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