Understanding obstructive sleep apnea in Somali-Americans

Evaluating the Prevalence and Implications of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Among Somali-Americans: A Translational Research Study

Mayo Clinic · NCT04124848

This study looks at how obstructive sleep apnea affects Somali-Americans compared to others to see if there are different health risks related to heart disease.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment600 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMayo Clinic (other)
Locations1 site (Rochester, Minnesota)
Trial IDNCT04124848 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to enhance the understanding of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by comparing Somali patients diagnosed with OSA to those without the condition and to individuals from other ethnic backgrounds. The study will investigate genetic and physiological risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases among these groups. Participants will undergo various assessments, including sleep studies, physical examinations, and imaging tests, to gather comprehensive data on their health and sleep patterns.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who self-identify as Somali, African, Asian, or European descent.

Not a fit: Patients who are minors, over 100 years old, or pregnant will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for obstructive sleep apnea, particularly in Somali-Americans and other ethnic groups.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on sleep apnea exist, this specific focus on Somali-Americans and ethnic differences in OSA is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Self-identify as Somali, African, Asian, and European descent.
* Adult males and females who are older than 18 years of age.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Minors under 18 years or adults over 100 years
* Positive pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Rochester, Minnesota

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Somali-Americans, Sleep Disordered Breathing, Cardiovascular Diseases, Sex and Racial Differences, Respiratory Disorders, Hypertension, Diabetes

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.