In this blog, we discuss the STOP-Bang test, a clinically validated screening tool used to identify the risk of obstructive sleep apnoea. Here’s what you’ll learn:
- The purpose of the STOP-Bang screening tool
- Eight core sleep apnoea risk factors
- How to interpret low, moderate and high risk scores
- About non-invasive MAS alternatives to CPAP therapy
Snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) are common health concerns that often go untreated. This is where the STOP-Bang test comes in.
OSA is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, workplace fatigue and reduced quality of life, yet many people remain undiagnosed for years.
The STOP-Bang test is a widely used sleep apnoea screening tool for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). The name is an acronym made up of key obstructive sleep apnoea risk factors, including snoring, daytime tiredness, observed breathing pauses during sleep, high blood pressure, body mass index, age, neck circumference and gender. Early detection of OSA is important for long-term health, and the questionnaire is designed to help identify people who may be at risk of moderate to severe sleep apnoea.
The STOP-Bang test is a clinically validated questionnaire used worldwide to quickly assess the likelihood of obstructive sleep apnoea through eight simple yes or no questions based on recognised obstructive sleep apnoea risk factors.
It is important to note that STOP-Bang is not a diagnostic test. Instead, it is a sleep apnoea screening tool that helps clinicians determine whether further investigation, such as a formal sleep study (polysomnography), may be required.
Why This Screening Matters
Early detection of OSA is important for long-term health. As a sleep apnoea screening tool, this questionnaire is highly sensitive, making it a reliable way to identify people who may have moderate to severe sleep apnoea.
Completing this assessment can help you take an informed first step toward improving your sleep quality and reducing the strain on your cardiovascular system.
The Eight Screening Categories
- S – Snoring: Do you snore loudly? Loud snoring indicates an upper airway obstruction, which is a hallmark of OSA.
- T – Tiredness: Do you feel fatigued or sleepy during the day? Daytime sleepiness suggests your brain is being frequently interrupted by breathing pauses.
- O – Observed Apnoea: Has anyone noticed you stop breathing during sleep? Witnessed gasping or choking is one of the strongest indicators of the condition.
- P – Pressure: Do you have high blood pressure? Hypertension is closely linked with untreated OSA.
- B – BMI: Is your BMI over 35? Excess weight increases soft tissue around the airway, making collapse more likely.
- A – Age: Are you over 50? Airway muscle tone naturally declines with age.
- N – Neck Circumference: Is your neck larger than 40cm? Increased neck size is a physical indicator of potential airway narrowing.
- G – Gender: Are you male? Statistics show men have a higher risk, though women’s risk increases post-menopause.
Understanding Your Score
The results of the questionnaire are calculated based on the number of “yes” responses. A higher score indicates a stronger probability of OSA, but again, this is not a diagnosis. Clinicians use these scoring tiers to determine how urgent further diagnostic testing is.
These scores help guide whether further assessment, such as a sleep study, is recommended and how urgently it should be pursued.
- 0 – 2: Low risk
- 3 – 4: Moderate risk
- 5 – 8: High risk
Next Steps for Better Sleep
If you’ve scored high on the STOP-Bang test or experience persistent daytime fatigue, it’s time to seek professional advice.
Our team at Absolute Sleep can recommend where to go to confirm a diagnosis. We also provide an alternative to CPAP through mandibular advancement splints, which are comfortable, non-invasive devices that hold the airway open and keep you safe. For suitable patients, mandibular advancement splints may be recommended as an effective alternative, particularly for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea.
Take the first step. Complete the STOP-Bang test online to assess your risk and regain your energy.
FAQs
Is the STOP-Bang test a final diagnosis?
No. It’s a screening tool used to assess risk. A formal diagnosis requires a sleep study (PSG) or an at-home sleep test (HSAT).
Can women use this screening tool?
Yes. While being male is a risk factor, women who score highly in other categories should still seek professional consultation. Today, nearly 1 in 5 women have OSA and 9 out of 10 of them don’t even know it.
What do I do next if I score high on the STOP-Bang test?
After a formal diagnosis, treatment may include lifestyle changes, CPAP or a mandibular advancement splint (MAS).
Do I need to come into the clinic to complete the STOP-Bang test?
No. The STOP-Bang test can be completed online via Absolute Sleep, making it easy to assess your risk from home. If your score indicates a higher risk, we can help you understand the results and advise on next steps.
