RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

A Study Assessing Adult Patients Referred to an NHS Sleep Service With Suspected Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. This Study Aims to Compare the Sunrise Wearable Diagnostic Device Performance and Potential Inclusion in a NHS Diagnostic Pathway With Oximetry and WatchPAT Which Are Currently Used.

This research aims to find out if a new device, called Sunrise, can help doctors diagnose Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) in adults more effectively. The Sunrise device measures tiny jaw movements during sleep. The study compares it to the tests currently used by the NHS, such as overnight oximetry and WatchPAT 300, to see which is best. Researchers want to know if Sunrise can lead to faster decisions about treatment, reduce waiting times for a diagnosis, and be a better experience for patients. Participants will use Sunrise alongside their usual test for one night and then share their feedback. The main goal is to improve how OSA is diagnosed in NHS sleep services.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Virginia Hawkins

Enrolment target

100

Start

28 Jul 2025

Estimated completion

30 Sep 2026

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)

What is this study about?

If your doctor thinks you might have Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), you might be referred to an NHS sleep clinic. OSA is a common condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts while you sleep, which can make you very tired during the day. Currently, the NHS uses tests like overnight oximetry (which measures oxygen levels in your blood) or a small device called WatchPAT 300 to help diagnose OSA.

This study is looking at a new device called Sunrise. It's a small device that measures tiny jaw movements while you sleep. The researchers want to see if Sunrise can be a good alternative to the current NHS tests. They'll compare how well Sunrise works against oximetry and WatchPAT 300 to see if it can help doctors make treatment decisions more quickly and accurately for patients.

The main idea is to find out if using Sunrise could make the diagnosis process faster, more efficient, and potentially more comfortable for patients. They are also looking to include people from all ethnic backgrounds, as previous research has highlighted the need to check how well these devices work in people with different skin colours.

Key takeaways

This study evaluates a new sleep apnoea diagnostic device called Sunrise.
It compares Sunrise to current NHS tests like oximetry and WatchPAT 300.
Participation involves using both devices for one night at home.
Your standard NHS care will not be affected by study participation.
The aim is to improve diagnostic efficiency and patient experience for OSA.
Feedback on the Sunrise device's ease of use is an important part of the study.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults who are 18 years old or over and have been referred to an NHS sleep clinic because their doctor suspects they might have Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).

You would need to be able to understand what the study involves and agree to take part. You'll also need a smartphone with internet access (either Wi-Fi or mobile data) to use the Sunrise device app. If you don't have internet at home, the hospital can help you connect when you pick up or drop off the equipment.

However, some people won't be able to join. This includes if your doctor thinks you might have a different sleep disorder (like narcolepsy), or if you have certain heart conditions or other serious health problems. Also, if you have a beard that covers the area below your lip and aren't willing to shave that small part, you might not be suitable for the study. If you're currently in hospital, you also can't take part.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been referred to an NHS sleep clinic for suspected sleep apnoea?
Do you have a smartphone with internet access (Wi-Fi or mobile data)?
Are you willing and able to follow simple instructions for using the device?
Do you not have other confirmed sleep disorders apart from suspected OSA?
Are you potentially able to shave the small area below your lip if you have a beard?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you will follow the usual steps for diagnosing sleep apnoea that your NHS sleep clinic recommends, which will likely involve using either an oximetry device or a WatchPAT 300 at home. On the same night as your usual test, you will also wear the Sunrise device. So, for one night, you'll be using two devices simultaneously.

After your night of testing, you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire to share your thoughts on how easy the Sunrise device was to use and your overall experience. You will need to return all the equipment, both your usual test device and the Sunrise device, two days later. Importantly, the results from the Sunrise device will only be used for the study and will not affect your current medical care from the NHS.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may offer the benefit of contributing to new knowledge that could improve how sleep apnoea is diagnosed for future patients in the NHS. You will also get to try a new diagnostic device. The risks are very low, as the Sunrise device is non-invasive and used alongside your standard care. There are no known serious side effects from using these devices. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
Bristol, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)?

OSA is a condition where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts while you sleep, which can make you feel very tired during the day.

What is the Sunrise device?

It's a new small device that measures tiny jaw movements while you sleep to help diagnose OSA.

Will using Sunrise change my treatment?

No, the Sunrise results in this study are just for research and won't affect your medical care or diagnosis process from the NHS.

Do I need to shave for this study?

If you have a beard, you might need to shave the specific area below your lip (sometimes called a 'soul patch') so the Sunrise device can work properly.

How long will I be in the study?

You'll use the Sunrise device and your usual test for one night and return them two days later. There will also be a short questionnaire to complete.

How to find out more

Rachel E Pickersgill, BSc

rachel.pickersgill@uhbw.nhs.uk +44(0)117923 0000 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.