IBAS − Institute for Breathing and Sleep

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

Sleep Research

Sleep research focuses on circadian rhythm disturbances (including shiftwork), insomnia and obstructive sleep apnoea.

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