Using digital technology to diagnose and treat sleep apnea in homeless individuals
Diagnosis and Treatment of Sleep Apnea in Shelter Residents
This study is testing if using portable sleep monitors and online doctor visits can help people experiencing homelessness in Canada get diagnosed and treated for sleep apnea to improve their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Toronto, Ontario and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06620601 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to address the high prevalence of sleep apnea among people experiencing homelessness in Canada, who often face barriers to diagnosis and treatment. By utilizing portable polysomnography and telemedicine, the research will evaluate the effectiveness of patient-centered treatment approaches in improving the quality of life for individuals residing in shelters. The study will involve assessing participants' sleep patterns and providing necessary treatments while collecting data through questionnaires. The goal is to better understand and manage sleep disorders in this vulnerable population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals over 18 years old who are currently residing in a shelter.
Not a fit: Patients with allergies to medical tape or those requiring extensive dental treatment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve the quality of life for homeless individuals suffering from sleep apnea.
How similar studies have performed: While telemedicine has shown efficacy in reaching vulnerable populations, this specific approach to diagnosing and treating sleep apnea in the homeless is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Residing in a shelter at the time of recruitment * Age \>18 years old Exclusion Criteria: * Allergies to medical tape \[for diagnosis study\]. * Requiring extensive dental treatment or periodontal disease with tooth mobility \[for treatment study\].
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario and 1 other locations
- Dixon Hall — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
- Fred Victor — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.