A research team at the University of Manitoba is pioneering a faster and simpler method for diagnosing sleep apnea, a condition where the airway narrows or shuts off during sleep. The innovative approach utilizes acoustic sound analysis to map the airway, allowing for diagnosis in just a few minutes. This method involves a small speaker placed in the mouth and a contact microphone on the throat. Professor Zahra Moussavi, part of the research team, emphasized that current diagnostic procedures are lengthy and often require specialized sleep labs, making timely treatment difficult. Recent PhD graduate Walid Ashraf highlighted the risks associated with sleep apnea, which can disrupt sleep and lead to accidents. While snoring is commonly associated with the disorder, Ashraf noted it is not the sole indicator. Moussavi pointed out that aging, muscle atrophy, and smoking are significant factors contributing to sleep apnea. Although the project is still in its research phase, the team aims to develop a device that can be used by nurses and family physicians to enhance accessibility to diagnosis and treatment.