Veterans study: does treating both sleep apnea and COPD sharpen the mind?

NCT ID NCT02703207

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at older veterans who have both sleep apnea and COPD, a combination called 'overlap syndrome.' Researchers want to see if having both conditions worsens thinking and memory more than having just one. They will also test whether using a breathing machine (CPAP) plus extra oxygen helps improve brain function and quality of life better than CPAP alone. About 108 veterans aged 60 and older will take part.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this study could show that treating sleep apnea and COPD together improves thinking and daily life for older veterans.
What could go wrong: This is an observational study with a treatment comparison, not a large trial. Results may not apply to all patients, and cognitive tests can vary widely.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease obstructive sleep apnea syndrome Sleepiness

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA OSA COPD OVERLAP SYNDROME

Contacts and locations

Locations

John D. Dingell VA Medical Center, Detroit, MI
RECRUITING

Detroit, Michigan, 48201-1916, United States

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