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STOP-Bang Sleep Apnea Screening Score

STOP-Bang is a validated 8-question screening tool developed by Dr. Frances Chung and colleagues at the University of Toronto. Answer each item 1 for yes or 0 for no. It estimates your risk of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. It is a screening tool, not a diagnosis; only a sleep test read by a clinician can diagnose sleep apnea.

S: Do you snore loudly (louder than talking or heard through a closed door)? T: Do you often feel tired, fatigued or sleepy during the day? O: Has anyone seen you stop breathing, choke or gasp during sleep? P: Do you have or are you treated for high blood pressure? B: Is your BMI more than 35 kg/m2? A: Are you older than 50? N: Is your neck (shirt collar) 16 inches / 40 cm or larger? G: Are you male?

STOP-Bang score (0 to 8)

STOP questions answered yes (0 to 4)

2+ STOP answers plus male, BMI over 35 or large neck?

Risk category

Formula

Score = number of yes answers, 0 to 8. Cut-offs from Chung et al. (Chest 2016) and the STOP-Bang site run by University Health Network: 0 to 2 = low risk (category 0), 3 to 4 = intermediate (category 1), 5 to 8 = high (category 2).

For the 3 to 4 midrange, the authors add criteria: 2 or more of the 4 STOP questions plus male sex, a BMI over 35, or a large neck classifies a person as high risk. The calculator applies that rule, which is why a score of 3 or 4 can show category 2. In the 2016 review, a score of 3 or more had 93% sensitivity for moderate to severe OSA (AHI over 15) and 100% for severe OSA (AHI over 30). High sensitivity means it misses few cases but flags many people who turn out not to have moderate or severe OSA.

Worked example

Snores (1), tired (1), no observed apneas (0), no high blood pressure (0), BMI not over 35 (0), over 50 (1), neck under 40 cm (0), male (1). Score = 1 + 1 + 0 + 0 + 0 + 1 + 0 + 1 = 4. STOP score = 1 + 1 + 0 + 0 = 2. Because the STOP score is at least 2 and the person is male, the flag is 1. Score 4 is in the midrange, so the flag decides: risk category = 2 (high).

Assumptions and limits

Validated in adults; not for children.
A screening result is not a diagnosis. A low score does not rule out sleep apnea if you have symptoms.
If you score intermediate or high, or have symptoms like witnessed pauses or severe daytime sleepiness, talk to a clinician about a sleep test.
Drowsy driving is dangerous; if you nod off at the wheel, stop driving and see a doctor promptly.

Think you might have sleep apnea?

Only a sleep test can tell. Home sleep tests are a common first step for adults without other major health conditions; your doctor can order one, or you can use an online service that includes a clinician review.

Lofta home sleep test Affiliate links

Frequently asked questions

What does a STOP-Bang score of 5 mean?

A score of 5 to 8 puts you in the high-risk group for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. It does not diagnose you; it means a sleep test is worth discussing with your doctor soon.

How accurate is the STOP-Bang questionnaire?

In Chung's 2016 review, a score of 3 or more caught 93% of moderate to severe cases and 100% of severe cases. It is built to miss few people, so it also flags many who turn out not to have significant sleep apnea.

Can I get a home sleep test after a high STOP-Bang score?

Many home sleep test services start with a questionnaire like this, then a clinician decides whether to order a test. A home test is not right for everyone, so the clinician decides which kind of test fits you.

Why does gender count in STOP-Bang?

Men have a higher rate of obstructive sleep apnea, so male sex adds a point. A low score does not rule out sleep apnea, so if you have symptoms such as witnessed pauses or heavy daytime sleepiness, talk to a clinician whatever your score.

Sources

Last reviewed October 11, 2026. How we research · Report an error