Can I Get Life Insurance with Sleep Apnoea?
Yes — sleep apnoea (obstructive sleep apnoea, OSA) is widely insurable in the UK. In fact, for those who have been diagnosed and are receiving effective treatment — particularly CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy — standard or near-standard rates are often available. Untreated sleep apnoea may attract a modest loading, as it is associated with increased cardiovascular risk.
The fact that you have been diagnosed is generally viewed positively by insurers, as it means the condition is being monitored. Those with undiagnosed or untreated sleep apnoea may present greater underwriting risk than those actively managing it.
How Does Sleep Apnoea Affect My Premium?
The premium impact depends on:
- Treatment status: CPAP-treated sleep apnoea with good compliance typically attracts standard or near-standard rates
- Severity: Mild OSA (AHI below 15) is viewed more favourably than severe OSA (AHI above 30)
- Associated conditions: Sleep apnoea alongside obesity, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease attracts a higher combined loading
- BMI: Elevated BMI associated with the sleep apnoea may itself attract a loading
What Information Will the Insurer Ask For?
Insurers will typically ask:
- When were you diagnosed and how?
- What treatment are you currently receiving (CPAP, mandibular advancement device, surgery)?
- How compliant are you with CPAP therapy and are you seeing good results?
- What was your AHI (apnoea-hypopnoea index) at diagnosis?
- Do you have any other associated conditions — hypertension, cardiovascular disease?
- What is your current BMI?
Which Insurers Are Most Competitive?
Most major UK insurers take a relatively favourable view of treated sleep apnoea, particularly where CPAP therapy is being used and is effective. Legal & General and Aviva are generally competitive for well-managed sleep apnoea cases.
The most competitive insurer for your specific profile can only be identified by comparing the whole market. Premiums vary significantly — sometimes by 30–40% — for the same applicant across different providers.
Can I Also Get Critical Illness Cover and Income Protection?
Critical illness cover is available for most sleep apnoea applicants, often at standard rates if the condition is well-treated and there are no associated cardiovascular complications.
Income protection is similarly available. Sleep apnoea itself is rarely a cause of significant long-term work absence when treated, so most insurers will offer cover without specific exclusions for treated cases. Untreated or severe OSA may attract an exclusion or loading on income protection.
Tips for Applying with Sleep Apnoea
- Be fully transparent: Always disclose your full medical history. Non-disclosure is the most common reason for a declined claim — and insurers check medical records at the point of claim.
- Use a whole-of-market adviser: They know which insurers are most favourable for your condition and can submit your application to get the best available terms.
- Apply when well-controlled: If your condition is managed with medication, applying when your condition is stable and well-controlled gives the best chance of favourable terms.
- Don't self-reject: Many people assume they cannot get cover or will pay extortionate premiums. In the majority of cases, cover is available at reasonable cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Treated sleep apnoea, particularly where CPAP therapy is being used effectively, often attracts standard or near-standard rates. Untreated sleep apnoea may attract a modest loading due to the associated cardiovascular risk. The overall premium is primarily influenced by any associated conditions such as hypertension or elevated BMI.
Yes. CPAP therapy and good compliance demonstrates that your sleep apnoea is effectively managed and the associated cardiovascular risks are mitigated. Most UK insurers view CPAP-treated sleep apnoea significantly more favourably than untreated OSA, often resulting in standard or near-standard rates.