Propelling Developments in Cardiosleep

Cardiosleep explores the complex relationship between the cardiovascular system and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). However, it remains largely under-recognised by patients and clinicians alike. A/Prof. Ronald Lee presents the efforts made to develop this area.

Cardiosleep is still considered an emerging field as progress has been incredibly slow. One reason is the lack of public awareness. Most people perceive snoring to be common, especially with an increasing prevalence of obesity globally, and a social nuisance rather than a treatable medical disease caused by SDB. Another reason is the lack of research funding. There are only two international companies supporting research in SBD and the scale and commitment is limited.

Uncovering the Cardio-Sleep Relationship

I recently presented the Sleep and Stent Study at the American Thoracic Society International Conference in San Francisco, United States. The presentation was well-received and the audience raised many interesting questions. Indeed, a sleep physician thought that percutaneous coronary intervention requires general anaesthesia. I was delighted that our centre received local news coverage and that this study was published in a reputable cardiology journal. During the conference, I also discussed on future research collaborations and data sharing with other international industry partners and clinician scientists.

Committed to Advancing Cardiosleep

It will also be exciting when the results of the Sleep Apnoea and Vascular Endpoints (SAVE) trial are released at the upcoming European Society of Cardiology Congress in Rome. The trial is the largest multicentre randomised clinical trial evaluating the use of continuous positive airway pressure therapy for cardiac patients with obstructive sleep apnoea. The recent formation of the European Cardiosleep Society also signifies the dedication of the cardiovascular community to intensify research and development in Cardiosleep.

By A/Prof. Ronald Lee