The Epworth Sleepiness Scale: Influence of Age, Ethnicity, and Socioeconomic Deprivation. Epworth Sleepiness Scores of Adults in New Zealand

Abstract

The relationships between an Epworth Sleepiness Scale score >10 and sleep habits and risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea are as expected. The relationships between an ESS score > 10 and being Măori, a man, older, or more socioeconomically deprived could be related to a higher prevalence of sleep disorders in these groups. However, more research is needed to understand possible differences not only in pathophysiologic processes, but also in the wider societal trends and pressures that may impact differentially on sleep and sleepiness.