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Shaquille O'Neal Partners with Lilly to Highlight Sleep Apnea

In a groundbreaking initiative, Basketball Hall of Famer Shaquille O'Neal has partnered with Lilly to shine a light on moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a significant health issue impacting approximately 24 million adults in the U.S. Despite its prevalence, this condition often goes undiagnosed, particularly among those who are overweight or living with obesity.

This campaign, known as Don't Sleep on OSA, seeks to empower individuals to recognize the symptoms of OSA and encourage discussions with their healthcare providers. This partnership is pivotal in raising awareness about a condition that is frequently trivialized. O'Neal is speaking from personal experience; he has faced the realities of moderate OSA and is determined to ensure others do not suffer in silence.

O'Neal explains how debilitating OSA can be, sharing his own struggles with exhaustion. He underscores the importance of seeking help: "For years, I was tired all the time and didn't know why, but getting diagnosed made a real difference. I'm not always one to ask for help, and I know it can be difficult to speak up when something is impacting you. I'm here to say don't ignore moderate-to-severe OSA symptoms – talk to your doctor."

Understanding Moderate-to-Severe OSA

Moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea occurs when a person's airway is blocked during sleep, leading to breathing interruptions that can happen anywhere from 15 to more than 30 times per hour. Many of those affected may exhibit symptoms such as loud snoring, choking or gasping for air, extreme daytime sleepiness, and irritability—all of which can significantly affect quality of life.

The risk factors for moderate-to-severe OSA include being male, obesity, being over 50, and having a family history of the condition. Given its serious implications, including potential cardiovascular problems, it’s critical that those who suspect they may be suffering from OSA seek medical advice.

Lina Polimeni, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Lilly, emphasized the urgency of this campaign: "Moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea is a serious and often overlooked condition that affects millions of Americans. By partnering with Shaquille O'Neal, we aim to create a meaningful dialogue around this health issue, breaking down stigma and prompting individuals to reach out for the help they need."

The Way Forward

The Don't Sleep on OSA campaign is multifaceted and includes digital platforms, community engagements, and media outreach. Individuals are encouraged to visit DontSleepOnOSA.com to learn more about the symptoms and risk factors associated with this condition. The site also offers valuable resources for individuals preparing to discuss their concerns with their doctors.

In conclusion, the campaign led by Shaquille O'Neal and Lilly marks a significant step forward in addressing moderate-to-severe OSA. By sharing his story, O'Neal hopes to inspire others to take control of their health and not ignore signs that could significantly impair their quality of life. Through education and awareness, this initiative aims to foster a healthier conversation around sleep disorders and ultimately lead to more people seeking the help they need.