Using advanced technology to identify heart rhythm risks in people with sleep apnea

Deep learning of awake and sleep electrocardiography to identify atrial fibrillation risk in sleep apnea

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10758964

This study is looking at how sleep apnea might affect heart rhythm problems, and it's for people with sleep apnea who want to understand their heart health better, using advanced technology to help identify those at higher risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10758964 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the connection between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder. By utilizing deep learning techniques on electrocardiography (ECG) data collected during both awake and sleep states, the study aims to better identify individuals with OSA who are at higher risk for developing AF. The researchers will analyze heart rate responses to OSA events to improve cardiovascular risk assessment, which could lead to more informed treatment decisions for patients. This approach seeks to enhance the understanding of how sleep disorders impact heart health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea who may also be at risk for atrial fibrillation.

Not a fit: Patients without obstructive sleep apnea or those who do not have risk factors for atrial fibrillation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification and management of patients at risk for atrial fibrillation, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality associated with this condition.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using advanced metrics to assess cardiovascular risks associated with sleep apnea, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.