Sleep Apnea Prevalence Reaches 69% in Former Professional Football Players

Elite athletes are frequently subject to unique physiological stressors that can lead to chronic health challenges long after their competitive careers conclude [1, 2]. Among these challenges, sleep disturbances are increasingly recognized as a critical factor influencing both cognitive function and long-term neurological health [3]. While the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea in the general young adult population is estimated at approximately 16%, athletes in collision sports may face significantly higher risks due to specific physical profiles and injury histories [4, 5]. Furthermore, sleep disorders frequently co-occur with concussion-related symptoms and may complicate the clinical presentation of suspected neurodegenerative conditions [6, 7]. Understanding the intersection of sleep pathology and neuropsychiatric health is essential for clinicians managing the complex needs of former professional players, as sleep disordered breathing represents a potentially modifiable risk factor for cognitive and psychological decline.