In a world first, Australian sleep experts were given just eight weeks to develop and run a sleep treatment program that diagnosed and treated more than 30 volunteers and achieved an over 80 per cent success rate.
Lead researcher Professor Danny Eckert and the team from Flinders University employed cutting edge technology and personalised clinical methods to conduct a rigorous clinical trial and treat sleep disorders through the science of sleep.
“It’s been a fantastic opportunity to help people and showcase some of the new methods we are researching to diagnose and treat people’s sleep disorders effectively and to also highlight nationally the range of issues poor sleep has on people’s lives. We’re delighted that more than 80 per cent of those who completed our novel treatment program had their sleep problems resolved,” says Professor Eckert.
The methods and findings are featured in SBS and SBS On Demand’s new documentary series ‘Australia’s Sleep Revolution with Dr Michael Mosley’.
Thirty participants – including Dr Michael Mosley and high-profile politicians Barnaby Joyce and Jacqui Lambie – took part in the trial which focused on the most common sleep disorders, insomnia and sleep apnea – or a combination of both.
Professor Eckert says having research findings aired in the documentary will strengthen public awareness and understanding of the importance of good quality sleep.
“We really wanted to unpack the science behind common sleep conditions like insomnia and sleep apnoea.
It also highlights the shocking short- and long-term health effects posed by bad sleep – ranging from high blood pressure to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, depression and chronic disease,” says Professor Eckert.
Medical journalist and chronic insomnia suAustralia’s Sleep Revolutionfferer Dr Michael Mosley took part in the trial himself saying, “I was very keen to work with the Flinders team, who are world class, and to take part in this world-first clinical trial as an observer, but also a participant.
“It was a joyful experience, and I learnt a surprising amount, not only about the science of sleep, but also the real causes of my own insomnia. A truly eye-opening series which I do hope will have a huge impact.”
with Dr. Michael Mosley premieres Wednesday 6 March on SBS On Demand and airs at 7.30pm the same day on SBS, with episodes following weekly.
