[Epidemiology and laser correction of chronic diseases observed in snoring and obstructive sleep apnea].

Investigations of snoring have been initiated because snoring is associated with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and some chronic diseases eventuating in invalidity. Questionnaire survey provided evidence on snoring and OSAS incidence among different age groups of male and female population of St-Petersburg. Associated chronic diseases were also evaluated. Snoring and OSAS were corrected by laser uvulopalatoplasty. The correction was conducted in the contact regimen by Nd-YAG laser. As a result of the treatment, snoring and apnea in mild OSAS ceased in all the patients and decreased by at least 60% in severe OSAS. This effect was confirmed by polysomnographic findings.