[Telemedicine and lifestyle modifications in obstructive sleep apnea patients]

The recent advent of information technology(IT) has led to the application of telemedicine to the diagnosis of sleep-disordered breathing(SDB) such as obstructive sleep apnea(OSA). Trials with automatic SDB analyzers(Night Watch and Alice 4) are investigating the use of home SDB testing via telephone circuits or the internet, home continuous positive airway pressure(CPAP) titration via remote-control, and super-remote polysomnographic monitoring using the time difference between Japan and the United States. In 1994, we developed a computer-controlled lifestyle improvement support system(AILIFE) using a telephone circuit. The support system is expected to heighten the effectiveness of treatments for OSA with CPAP, prosthetic mandibular advancement, or uvulopalatopharyngoplasty by improving the lifestyle of OSA patients through the provision of home-based guidance on nutrition and exercise via telecare.