Overview
Mayo Clinic researchers have created an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm capable of detecting obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) through electrocardiogram (ECG) results. This advancement aims to improve the speed, cost, and accessibility of diagnosing sleep apnea, particularly in women who are often underdiagnosed.
Key Findings
- OSA affects over 936 million adults aged 30-69 globally, posing significant cardiovascular risks.
- Individuals with OSA experience repeated airway blockages during sleep, leading to shallow breathing or cessation of breath.
- Dr. Virend Somers, a senior author of the study, emphasizes the cardiovascular implications of OSA and how AI can identify its signature from ECG data.
Study Details
The study analyzed the ECG results of 11,299 patients at Mayo Clinic, with over 7,000 diagnosed with OSA and 4,000 serving as controls. The AI model demonstrated:
- Increased detection of OSA in women compared to men, despite women having milder symptoms.
- Potential for women to experience greater cardiovascular damage from OSA.
Implications for Treatment
This AI-driven approach not only aids in diagnosis but also evaluates how OSA treatments may affect cardiovascular risk, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Conclusion
The development of this AI algorithm at Mayo Clinic represents a significant step forward in sleep medicine, with the potential to enhance the understanding and treatment of OSA, particularly in women.