Sleep and Quality of Life in Children with Health Conditions

Children with health conditions are more vulnerable to sleep problems and consequently poorer well-being compared to healthy peers. My PhD addressed the identification of obstructive sleep apnoea in children who have Down syndrome and the treatment of sleep difficulties, with a focus on acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). The utility of clinical tools was investigated, including a model that can identify children with Down syndrome who should be prioritised for a sleep study. The value of bright light therapy was also explored for improving the sleep patterns and quality of life in children with health conditions, including ALL. My PhD reports findings relevant to future research and health care on the path to improving sleep in children with medical conditions.