InnoSleep

Sleep apnea is a serious chronic condition where patients experience numerous prolonged nightly breathing pauses (apneas) due to airway obstruction, leading to interrupted sleep and the risk of a wide range of serious complications, reduced quality of life and traffic accidents. The prevalence of sleep apnea is increasing worldwide. InnoSleep is a new project focused on sleep apnea, involving Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish partners, building on research results and the strong network developed by the previous Sleep Across Waters project.
The project involves collaboration between healthcare systems, patients, and companies that aim to accelerate knowledge about sleep apnea treatment, focusing on innovative technologies and the individual characteristics of patients. InnoSleep aims to develop a range of technological solutions for sleep apnea patients, enhancing the quality of life for both patients and their relatives.

The plan includes the development and implementation of a standardized diagnostic plan that ensures more patients receive treatment they are motivated to continue. The project expects many more patients to be assessed and receive early treatment. In collaboration with patients, the project also aims to develop and implement patient education programs that motivate sleep apnea patients to adhere to their lifelong treatment.

It is estimated that approximately 1 million citizens in the Öresund Region suffer from sleep apnea. yet only about one-third have been offered diagnosis and treatment, typically with CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure), which works by keeping the airways open during sleep. Of those who are offered CPAP treatment, about half discontinue it because it is perceived as an overwhelming intrusion into daily life. This is a problem, as untreated sleep apnea carries a high risk of complications, including hypertension, atrial fibrillation, fatigue, depression, and stroke.
. Faster diagnosis and treatment will improve the quality of life for patients and their families, improve and prolong labor market attachment, increase traffic safety, and prevent a wide range of comorbidities, especially fatigue, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.