What we do > Sleep Research

Sleep Research

One in three Australian adults have a sleep disorder such as insomnia, sleep apnoea and restless legs syndrome.
Poor sleep can lead to a range of negative health outcomes for those affected. Patients can experience daytime sleepiness, depression, poor memory and concentration and reduced decision-making ability. They are also at increased risk of cardiovascular disease including high blood pressure, strokes and heart attacks, as well as diabetes and some cancers.

With sleep disorders costing the Australian community billions of dollars per year, the Institute for Breathing and Sleep is dedicated to better understanding and finding treatments for these conditions.

Since the Institute was established in 2000, our team has led successful research in a number of key areas including:

  • Sleep health in spinal injury patients - a group at increased risk of sleep conditions
  • Occupational sleepiness and fatigue among transport and shift workers
  • The impact of sleep conditions during pregnancy on mother and baby
  • The impact of sleep apnoea on neurocognitive function and depression
  • Studies into the structure and function of the upper airway, which is impacted by sleep conditions

To find out about current IBAS sleep related projects, click here.

As some sleep conditions can be caused by breathing disorders, our research into sleep and breathing disorders is interlinked. To find out more about our respiratory research, click here.

More information on sleep conditions can be found at the Sleep Health Foundation, including what to do if you or someone you know has concerns about their sleep health.

 

Information sources: Sleep Health Foundation, 2011 Deloitte Access Economics report
 



SHiQ - COSAQSHIQ - COSAQ

Each year in Australia 260 people sustain a SCI, with over half losing full function in their arms and legs (quadriplegia). In addition to the primary disability, there is a very high rate of Obstructive...

Notch monitoring in sleepNOTCH MONITORING IN SLEEP

Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing is abnormal during sleep. There are two main forms of sleep apnea: obstructive and central. For obstructive sleep apnea, breathing is reduced because the airway...

National study offers hope for breathlessnessNATIONAL STUDY OFFERS HOPE FOR BREATHLESSNESS

A national medication study is aiming to help thousands of Australians who struggle every day with shortness of breath

Most influential respiratory paper of 2016 goes to Australian researchersMOST INFLUENTIAL RESPIRATORY PAPER OF 2016 GOES TO AUSTRALIAN RESEARCHERS

An Australian study has been highlighted by the American College of Physicians as one of the most influential studies in respiratory medicine to be published last year.

Helping Victorians breathe and sleep easy - A New Centre of Excellence in Respiratory and Sleep MedicineHELPING VICTORIANS BREATHE AND SLEEP EASY - A NEW CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN RESPIRATORY AND SLEEP MEDICINE

With your support we will build a life-changing Centre of Excellence in Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, improving quality of life and health outcomes for Victorians who struggle to breathe and sleep

Driver-fatigue test could stop drowsy people from getting behind the wheelDRIVER-FATIGUE TEST COULD STOP DROWSY PEOPLE FROM GETTING BEHIND THE WHEEL

A roadside test is being developed by Victorian researchers to identify tired drivers and keep them off the road.

Institute for Breathing and Sleep

Bowen Centre, Austin Hospital
145 Studley Road
Heidelberg, Victoria, 3084

(03) 9496 5390

Email Us

Donate