More belgians receiving sleep apnea devices as awareness grows
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In 2025, approximately 207,000 people in Belgium received coverage for devices treating sleep apnea, a nearly 10 percent increase from the 188,525 covered in 2024.
The rise in diagnoses coincides with increased visibility of CPAP masks, devices that deliver constant airflow during sleep, in popular television programs like ‘Blind Getrouwd’ and ‘Bockie gaat naar school’. Georges from Leuven and Frederik from Dilbeek both use CPAP devices to manage their sleep apnea.
Georges reports feeling more rested and sleeping soundly with the device, taking it even on vacations. He acknowledges some discomfort from the mask and hose but finds the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. Frederik, however, hasn’t experienced the same improvement despite using the device for three years. He continues to feel fatigued, though doctors haven’t identified another cause. He primarily continues using the device due to a heart condition, as the CPAP mask reduces strain on his heart.
Both men note challenges with the devices, including discomfort and difficulty sharing a bed with a partner, but Georges also appreciates the data the device provides through an app tracking his sleep patterns and the ability to monitor his usage through his healthcare provider.
