Development and validation of SafeSleep, a smart, accessible, and convenient textile-based technology for remote monitoring of sleep apnea in high-risk population at home

Project Synopsis

Sleep apnea is a serious medical disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. The main types include obstructive (OSA, pharyngeal airway narrowing during sleep) and central (CSA, brain reducing breathing drive) sleep apnea. It is highly prevalent (3070%) in patients with chronic disorders, e.g. those with heart failure, lung disease, and opioids use. We have developed algorithms to diagnose OSA and CSA based on parameters of respiration and blood oxygen level (SpO2) that can be recorded at home. We aim to develop SafeSleep, a smart band with embedded sensors in textiles to monitor respiration, electrocardiography, SpO2, and diagnose OSA and CSA. SafeSleep will help create accessible technology to diagnose central and obstructive sleep apnea, which can enable the delivery of preventative therapies and provide independent support at home.

Project Objective

To develop a convenient portable sleep screening device, called SafeSleep, using textile technology. SafeSleep will help create an accessible, scalable technology to diagnose sleep apnea, which can minimize hospitalization, enable the delivery of preventative therapies and provide independent support at home.