Members of the French-speaking CBCO Kintambo parish in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, attended a conference on September 4, 2026, to learn about the risks of complications associated with snoring and sleep apnea. The conference aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of these conditions and promote early detection and treatment. Dr. Bienvenu Nzuzi, a physician at the Mont-Amba Hospital's chronic disease unit, led the conference. He explained that snoring is a natural process that occurs when air passes through the upper respiratory tract, causing tissue vibration in the throat.
Dr. Nzuzi emphasized that snoring becomes a serious concern when it leads to total obstruction of the upper respiratory tract for several seconds, resulting in sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can cause cardiovascular complications, hypertension, coronary disease, heart failure, metabolic complications, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes imbalance. The doctor noted that sleep apnea is often underdiagnosed in Kinshasa, and efforts are being made to educate the public about its signs and symptoms, such as nocturnal snoring accompanied by choking sounds, excessive daytime fatigue, and morning headaches.
According to Dr. Nzuzi, several factors contribute to snoring, including being overweight, aging, consuming sedatives before sleep, drinking alcohol, and having a specific nasal or airway anatomy. He advised the congregation to adopt preventive measures, such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, avoiding sleeping on their backs, and eating balanced meals. Dr. Nzuzi also suggested that treatment options include lifestyle changes, weight loss, and using a mandibular advancement orthosis.
Dr. Nzuzi stressed that snoring and sleep apnea should not be taken lightly, as they can lead to severe consequences, including stroke. He encouraged attendees to consult a specialist if they experience any sleep-related problems and to seek medical attention if they suspect sleep apnea. The doctor emphasized that sleep apnea is a treatable condition if detected early.
Sleep apnea, also known as obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), is a disorder characterized by pauses or significant slowdowns in breathing during sleep. Dr. Nzuzi's presentation aimed to raise awareness about this condition and promote early detection and treatment. The conference was organized by the Congolese Press Agency and the ACP.
The event was part of a larger effort to educate the public about various health issues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Recently, the country has seen initiatives to strengthen malaria prevention, combat Ebola, and promote healthcare. The government and healthcare professionals are working together to address these health concerns and improve the overall well-being of the population.
The conference at the CBCO Kintambo parish demonstrated the importance of community engagement in promoting health awareness and education. By working together with local churches and organizations, healthcare professionals can reach a wider audience and make a positive impact on public health. The event highlighted the need for continued education and awareness about sleep apnea and other health issues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Key points
- Dr. Bienvenu Nzuzi emphasized the importance of early detection and treatment of sleep apnea to prevent severe complications.
- The conference aimed to raise awareness about the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea, such as nocturnal snoring and excessive daytime fatigue.
- Preventive measures, including maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly, were recommended to reduce the risk of snoring and sleep apnea.
