Mayo Clinic Leverages AI to Address Gender Bias in Sleep Apnea Diagnosis

A new initiative at the Mayo Clinic aims to tackle the persistent issue of underdiagnosis of sleep apnea among women, a condition that can lead to severe health repercussions. Research indicates that women are often overlooked in sleep apnea diagnoses, resulting in symptoms that can range from chronic fatigue to serious heart complications and, in extreme cases, death.

Many women experience sleep apnea symptoms without receiving appropriate medical attention. Dr. Virend Somers, a leading researcher at the Mayo Clinic, highlights that women frequently juggle multiple responsibilities—such as work, childcare, and household duties—leading them to dismiss their fatigue as a normal consequence of their busy lives. “Women have very busy schedules. They’re often multitasking, looking after the kids, doing a job, taking care of the home,” Somers explained. “They have that sense of, yeah, I’m tired, but I should be tired because I’m doing all these things.”

The diagnosis of sleep apnea is often skewed by gender dynamics in relationships. Many men receive diagnoses after their partners report symptoms, such as loud snoring. In contrast, women’s experiences often go unnoticed. “Men tend to sleep through the night and not notice that their wives may be snoring,” Somers added. “Women don’t have that privilege.”

To combat this disparity, Somers and his team have turned to artificial intelligence to analyze over 11,000 electrocardiograms (ECGs). The AI technology identified unique indicators in women’s ECGs that may go undetected by both human clinicians and traditional computer systems. This advancement could significantly alter the landscape of sleep apnea diagnosis.

For women concerned about their sleep health, Somers recommends consulting a physician about the possibility of using an overnight oximeter monitor. “It’s a little device you put on your finger or your ear while you sleep, which monitors your oxygen levels throughout the night,” he explained. If the device detects cyclical drops in oxygen levels, it could indicate significant sleep apnea.

Early detection and consistent treatment of sleep apnea are vital. Interventions such as the use of a CPAP machine have been shown to improve heart function and reduce the thickness of the heart muscle. Studies confirm that timely treatment can reverse some of the damage caused by sleep apnea, emphasizing the importance of recognizing this condition in women.

As research continues, the Mayo Clinic’s innovative approach could pave the way for more accurate diagnoses and better health outcomes for women suffering from sleep apnea. Enhanced awareness and proactive steps could ultimately bridge the gender gap in sleep health, ensuring that women receive the care they deserve.