I was pleased to continue my good relations with road safety charity Brake by attending their parliamentary reception regarding Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. I received an award from the charity last year, for my role in the campaign for a crossing near to Bells Farm School in the constituency.

Brake is a registered charity with two aims: stopping the carnage of people being killed and maimed on roads; and caring for victims whose lives have been devastated by the death or serious injury of a loved one following a road crash. Obstructive Sleep Aponea is effectively diagnosed and treated to prevent sufferers of the disorder adding to the terrible toll of death and injury on the roads. The reception was part of Brake’s wider campaign which is highlighting the fact that one in six lorry drivers may suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, a disorder that makes falling asleep at the wheel much more likely [Respironics SASA research 2005]. Left undiagnosed and untreated, any sufferer poses a direct threat to themselves and others on the road when driving.

It is deeply worrying that so many drivers could be suffering from a sleep disorder that often leads to acute tiredness, which can be deadly behind the wheel. A simple test to diagnose the disorder could prevent many needless deaths on our roads. In addition, various simple treatments are now available for the disorder, which do not cost a lot of money, but will help sufferers to lead fulfilling and productive lives.”