Grant: Project Grant

We plan to look into the causes of sleep disorders in First Nations people. We want to find the relationship between sleep disorders and a number of other diseases. We want to find if there is a possibility of community-based diagnosis and treatment for sleep disorders. Based on our previous work we observed the likelihood that serious sleep problems were common in First Nations People. Low income, poor housing, too many people in small houses, and body weight were related to sleep disorders. Poor sleep and lack of sleep are associated with a number of diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. We will collect information on personal factors such as age and body weight. We will collect information on home factors such as housing and income. We will collect information on a list of medical conditions. We will conduct home sleep studies to diagnose sleep apnea. We will administer a small wrist-watch-like unit, worn on the wrist to measure sleep deprivation in children and adults. First Nations people have not been treated fairly for the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders. Based on our previous work, there has recently been a change in the policy for the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders in First Nations People. We consider this is a major potential change for First Nations people in Canada. This will improve care by improving access, reducing waiting times, resulting in better treatment, and result in financial savings in transportation costs. Results of this study will help us to develop programs and impact health policy to reduce sleep disorders in First Nations people. New ideas will be formed for First Nations people everywhere.