Analysis
05 May 2021
5 minute read
Rise and try to shine
The social and economic cost of sleep disorders in Australia
Deloitte Access Economics has released a new report for the Sleep Health Foundation that examines three common sleep disorders: obstructive sleep apnoea, insomnia and restless legs syndrome.
Key takeaways
The report was commissioned by the Sleep Health Foundation to highlight the impact of sleep disorders. The report provides evidence for three common sleep disorders: obstructive sleep apnoea, insomnia and restless legs syndrome.
- Around 1 in 10 Australians have a sleep disorder that can substantially affect their wellbeing, safety and productivity
- The economic cost of sleep disorders exceeded $14.4 billion in 2019-20, and the reduction in wellbeing for people affected by sleep disorders was valued at $36.6 billion - due to short and long-term disability, and premature death
- Productivity losses account for the majority of the economic cost, estimated at $11 billion. This includes reduced productivity at work stemming from poor sleep
- Almost 1,000 deaths were attributed to sleep disorders in 2019-20, due to increased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic conditions, mental health conditions and reduced mental health
- Alongside the costs of inadequate sleep – estimated to be $75.5 billion in 2019-20 – there are likely to be substantial benefits from interventions that aim to improve sleep health in Australia.
