PREDICT
A randomised controlled trial of continuous positive airway pressure treatment in older people with obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome
Can breathing pressurised air through a mask help older people with obstructive sleep apnoea?
What is this study about?
This trial has been designed to find out if there are any benefits from using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for older people with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). OSA is caused by obstruction of the airway – when they are sleeping people with OSA pause while they are breathing which wakes them up repeatedly through the night. CPAP involves breathing pressurised air through a mask (like an oxygen mask). The air pressure is automatically adjusted so that it is just enough to keep the breathing regular. The pressurised air is produced by a machine, which is attached to the mask by a tube.
We know CPAP works well in younger people with OSA, but we do not know if it helps in older people who may feel unwell for other reasons, or who may not be as sleepy as younger people. So researchers have designed a randomised controlled trial. People who agree to take part in this trial will be divided into two groups:
- The first group will receive the normal treatment for OSA.
- The second group will be given CPAP.
People in both groups will be asked to undergo similar follow-up visits and investigations.
Type of study
Randomised trial
Contact details
Who is funding the study?
This trial is being funded by the NHS National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Appraisal Programme. A company called ResMed UK is supplying the CPAP machines; this company is not involved in running the study.
When is it taking place?
PREDICT closed to recruitment on 31 May 2012.
Where is it taking place?
Six sites (London, Taunton, Leeds, Edinburgh, Oxford and Gwent).
Who is included?
People with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) who are aged 65 and over. 278 people are to be recruited.