An innovative new smart sensor has been designed that can help diagnose sleep disorders from the comfort of the bedroom.
The world’s first smart sleep test has been designed to help diagnose sleep problems such as sleep apnoea and associated disorders using a device that sits on the chin and provides results equivalent to the polysomnography used in laboratory conditions.
The revolutionary device, named ‘Sunrise’, has been designed in collaboration with the National Heart and Lung Institute and Imperial College London, and thanks to a £4.8m investment, and has been clinically proven to ensure that sleep disorder sufferers receive a quick and complete diagnosis.
Diagnosing sleep apnoea
The device is able to provide a medically certified alternative for conventional sleep apnoea tests, which is helping to relieve pressure on the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic whilst the majority of sleep clinics are closed to the public. A recent study has shown that people with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) are at eight times greater risk of COVID-19 infection compared to a similar age population. The study notes that ‘Among patients with COVID-19 infection, OSA was associated with increased risk of hospitalisation and approximately double the risk of developing respiratory failure.’
Designed by sleep specialist Dr Jean-Benoit Martinot, the device, which is the result of over a decade’s worth of research, is powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and works by measuring the movements in the chin.
In a clinical study, published in JAMA and authored by international sleep apnoea experts, the device’s technology has demonstrated industry-leading performances among home sleep tests.
Laurent Martinot, CEO and co-founder of Sunrise, comments: “We are excited to launch into the UK, which is known for its early adoption of innovative and industry leading medtech solutions. Sleep apnoea is a major health issue today with studies having concluded sleep disordered breathing concerns affect 49% of men and 23% of women aged 40 and above. The problem is that the condition remains 80% undiagnosed and untreated sleep apnoea is linked with serious health problems such as hypertension, heart failure, stroke, or diabetes.
“Additionally, patients suffering from sleep apnoea also appear to be more at risk if they contract COVID-19. As a result of the pandemic, many sleep labs have largely slowed down and we are working with sleep physicians in order to make the steps to getting treatment quick, easy, and affordable without compromising the quality of the results.”
He added: “Our overarching mission is to help everyone understand that breathing is at the heart of good night’s sleep. We believe sleep should not be a source of anxiety and getting a simple test can bring about more understanding of the quality of sleep.”
