European Sleep Apnea Database

The European Sleep Apnea Database (ESADA) is a comprehensive medical database established in 2007, designed to collect and analyze data related to sleep apnea across multiple centers in Europe. The database aims to enhance the understanding of sleep apnea, its comorbidities, and treatment outcomes.

Overview

The ESADA project was initiated to address the need for a large-scale, multicenter database that could provide insights into the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of sleep apnea. It involves collaboration among numerous sleep centers across Europe, each contributing data from patients diagnosed with sleep apnea.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the ESADA are:

• To collect standardized data on patients with sleep apnea from various European centers.
• To facilitate research on the clinical and biological aspects of sleep apnea.
• To evaluate the impact of different treatment modalities, such as Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy.
• To study the association between sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and other comorbidities.

Data Collection

Data in the ESADA is collected using a standardized protocol to ensure consistency and reliability. The database includes information on:

• Demographics: Age, gender, body mass index (BMI), etc.
• Clinical history: Symptoms, comorbidities, and previous treatments.
• Polysomnography results: Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), oxygen desaturation, sleep stages, etc.
• Treatment data: Type of treatment, adherence to CPAP, side effects, etc.

Research and Findings

The ESADA has facilitated numerous studies that have contributed significantly to the field of sleep medicine. Key findings include:

• The prevalence of sleep apnea in different populations and its correlation with obesity and hypertension.
• The impact of sleep apnea on quality of life and daytime sleepiness.
• The effectiveness of CPAP therapy in reducing cardiovascular risk factors.

Collaborations

ESADA collaborates with various international research groups and organizations to enhance the scope and impact of its research. It is part of the European Respiratory Society (ERS) and works closely with other sleep research networks.

Future Directions

The ESADA aims to expand its database by including more centers and increasing the diversity of its patient population. Future research will focus on:

• Genetic and biomarker studies to identify individuals at risk for sleep apnea.
• Longitudinal studies to assess the long-term outcomes of sleep apnea treatment.
• Integration of new technologies, such as telemedicine and wearable devices, in the management of sleep apnea.

Conclusion

The European Sleep Apnea Database is a vital resource for advancing the understanding of sleep apnea and improving patient care. Its comprehensive data collection and collaborative approach make it a cornerstone of sleep research in Europe.

References

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 The European Sleep Apnea Database (ESADA): report from 22 European sleep laboratories, 
 European Respiratory Journal, 
 2011, 
 Vol. 38(Issue: 3), 
 pp. 635-642, 
 DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00046710,

European Sleep Apnea Database Full text,

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External Links

• Official ESADA Website