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Help us research paediatric sleep-disordered breathing
- Details
- 08 July 2024
You are invited to be a part of our new research project aimed at improving child health and well-being. Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in children, often unnoticed by parents, can have significant implications for their growth and development. Dentists can play a role in SDB recognition and screening, and we need your participation to further this vital research.
About the research
SDB prevalence among children is estimated at 2% to 11%, and the lack of awareness among parents about the implications of snoring is a key challenge. While the gold standard for diagnosis is polysomnography (PSG), it is hindered by cost and limited testing centres. Our research introduces an innovative solution - the Paediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ), a validated tool that can effectively screen for SDB risk. By participating, you can help bridge the diagnostic gap and contribute to early intervention.
Aim of the research
Our aim is to assess patient outcomes and experiences resulting from dental practitioners screening for paediatric SDB in children aged 3 to 12. This research will shed light on the effectiveness of dental SDB screening and its impact on child health outcomes.
Who can participate
We are looking for:
- Dental practices located in metropolitan Melbourne with a patient demographic including children aged 3 to 12.
- Dental practices not currently screening for SDB or OSA.
Your role
You will be invited to:
- Confirm eligibility of participants.
- Obtain written consent from patients for study participants.
- Administer the Paediatric Sleep Questionnaire to eligible patients.
- Review PSQ results and provide appropriate recommendations based on the scores.
- Contribute to enhancing dental practice and child health outcomes.
Why participate
By participating, you will:
- Contribute to advancing paediatric sleep-disordered breathing research.
- Expand your role as a healthcare provider, positively impacting your patients' lives.
- Empower parents to take an active role in their child's well-being.
- Shape future healthcare policies and guidelines.
Get involved
Join us in making a real difference in child health. Your participation matters. For more information and to express your interest, please contact us at .
Who are the researchers:
Dr Mihiri Silva, Dr Moya Vandeleur and Dr Sai Raksha Baskar
Ethics approval
This project has received human research ethics approval from the University of Melbourne (Approval No 27701).
Your contribution can transform child health outcomes. Be a part of the change today!
