With the release of watchOS 11 in September, Apple revealed that the latest Apple Watch models would feature a new capability for detecting potential sleep apnea. This feature has since rolled out in over 150 countries, with Brazil now added to that list.
Apple Watch sleep apnea detection is now accessible in Brazil
On Tuesday, Apple confirmed that sleep apnea detection is officially available for Apple Watch users in Brazil. The feature has received approval from ANVISA, the health regulatory body in Brazil, as health features must gain clearance from respective national regulatory agencies.
“Starting today, a new Apple Watch feature designed to identify signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea has arrived in Brazil. To enable the sleep apnea notification function, Apple secured a medical equipment license from the National Health Surveillance Agency,” the company announced to the media.
This sleep apnea detection feature was introduced with watchOS 11 for the Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. It utilizes the accelerometer within the Apple Watch to identify potential breathing irregularities during sleep. Here’s how Apple explains it:
Sleep plays a crucial role in health, affecting overall physical and mental well-being. Sleep apnea is a common disorder characterized by intermittent breathing pauses during sleep, preventing the body from obtaining sufficient oxygen. This condition is estimated to affect over 1 billion individuals globally and often remains undiagnosed. If not treated, it can lead to significant health issues over time, such as increased risks of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular problems.
The innovative Breathing Disturbances metric uses the accelerometer to detect subtle wrist movements associated with disruptions in normal breathing patterns during sleep. Every 30 days, the Apple Watch analyzes the data on breathing disturbances and alerts users if it detects consistent signs of moderate to severe sleep apnea, encouraging them to consult their doctor regarding further diagnosis and treatment options.
Ensure that both your iPhone and Apple Watch are updated to iOS 18 and watchOS 11, respectively, to activate sleep apnea notifications. Besides Brazil, this feature is also offered in the U.S., Canada, Japan, South Africa, the U.K., the European Union, and various other regions. For a complete list of supported countries and regions, you can visit Apple’s website.
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