Addressing the Challenge of Mild SAS Patients
Sleep Apnea Syndrome (SAS) affects over 9 million individuals in Japan. Among this number exist a significant portion of mild to moderate patients who cannot access treatment due to their condition not being covered by health insurance. This issue has prompted the establishment of a vital initiative by the general incorporated association, the Patient Support Group for Overcoming SAS. This group is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individuals affected by SAS by facilitating hands-on experiences of devices, including CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines, oral appliances, and nasal dilation items.
The aim is to create an environment where patients can make informed decisions regarding their treatment options, even if it may involve self-financing. There are many who are feeling neglected with statements like, "I underwent tests at the hospital, but was told my condition isn't covered by insurance, and now I'm stuck with no options," or "I want to learn more about CPAP since it's expensive and I'm not sure how it works.” Additionally, potential users are also voicing desires for lightweight, portable small CPAP machines.
To tackle these concerns, the Patient Support Group plans to collaborate with medical institutions to expand opportunities for hands-on experiences and consultations. This allows individuals to compare and better understand their options, ultimately encouraging them to choose the best available solution for their needs.
Upcoming Event Details
To further this initiative, a free experience and consultation event titled
CPAP Experience Day in Tsukiji will be held in Chuo City, Tokyo. This event will allow participants to test various CPAP devices and accessories firsthand. Notably, attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to try out the industry's first ultra-compact CPAP devices, along with nasal dilation tools.
Event Overview:
- - Event Name: CPAP Experience Day in Tsukiji
- - Dates: June 4 (Wed), 7 (Sat), 8 (Sun), 20 (Fri), 21 (Sat), 22 (Sun) of 2025
- - Time: Weekdays 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Weekends 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Reservation Required)
- - Participation Fee: Free
- - Venue: 2-2-8 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, M.Balance+GinzaEast 5F
- - Reservation Link: Reserve Here
- - Target Audience: Individuals considering small CPAP machines, those who have undergone tests but struggle with non-insured solutions, and anyone interested in self-funded devices.
Supported Devices for Experience
During the event, participants will have the opportunity to experience a range of CPAP devices, including the innovative Nea model and the pioneering ultra-compact CPAP model, the Transcend micro, all set up at the Tsukiji experience space.
About the Organization
- - Name: General Incorporated Association, Patient Support Group for Overcoming SAS
- - Activities: Awareness efforts regarding SAS, provision of experience opportunities, consultation support, and dissemination of information
- - Location: 2-2-8 Tsukiji, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, M.Balance+GinzaEast 5F
- - Website: mukokyu.org
- - Access: A 3-minute walk from Tsukiji Station on the Hibiya Line; a 1-minute walk from Shintomicho Station on the Yurakucho Line.
With this initiative, the organization hopes to break down barriers and ensure that all SAS patients have access to the tools and information they need to manage their health effectively.