CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is delivered by a machine to persons suffering from significant sleep apnoea. People with sleep apnoea can die in their sleep from the disease. They also suffer daytime sleepiness because of the lack of restful sleep. This has been associated with MVAs (Motor Vehicle Accidents), sometimes fatal, as well as inefficiency at work or school.
A study has shown that CPAP reduces the rate of heart attacks.
Buchner NJ, Sanner BM, Borgel J, Rump LC. Continuous positive airway pressure treatment of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea reduces cardiovascular risk. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2007;176(12):1274-80.
