Welcome Note

About Conference

• Participants will benefit from a rich scientific program featuring:
• Plenary sessions and interactive panels led by top-tier academics and clinicians in neuroscience, pulmonology, behavioral medicine, and sleep technology.
• Workshops and hands-on demonstrations highlighting emerging tools such as polysomnography, wearable monitoring devices, and AI-driven sleep analysis platforms.
• Cross-sector insights into how lifestyle, mental health, nutrition, and environmental factors intersect with sleep quality and long-term wellness.
• Policy discussions on the economic and societal impact of sleep disorders, healthcare accessibility, and the role of digital therapeutics and telemedicine in sleep care delivery.

Why Attend Sleep Disorder 2026?

Scientific Sessions

Pathophysiology of Sleep Disorders

The pathophysiology of sleep disorders involves complex interactions among neural pathways, neurotransmitters, and physiological systems that regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Sleep is governed by two main processes: the circadian rhythm and the homeostatic drive. Disruption in either can lead to sleep disturbances. Brain regions such as the hypothalamus, thalamus, and brainstem play critical roles in sleep regulation, with neurotransmitters like GABA, serotonin, and orexin contributing to sleep onset and maintenance. In conditions like insomnia, heightened arousal and imbalanced neurotransmitter activity interfere with restful sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is often caused by airway collapse during sleep, disrupting normal oxygen exchange and sleep architecture. Narcolepsy, linked to the loss of hypocretin-producing neurons, results in sudden sleep episodes and fragmented rest. Understanding the underlying mechanisms helps in identifying biomarkers, developing precise treatments, and improving patient outcomes through targeted approaches in clinical sleep medicine.

Insomnia: Diagnosis, Causes, and Treatment Approaches

Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and reduced concentration. Diagnosis typically includes a detailed sleep history and may involve sleep diaries or actigraphy. Common causes include stress, anxiety, poor sleep habits, medical conditions, and environmental factors. Effective treatment often begins with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), which helps modify thoughts and behaviors that disrupt sleep. Lifestyle changes like a consistent sleep schedule, limiting screen time before bed, and creating a relaxing sleep environment are also beneficial. In some cases, short-term medical interventions may be considered.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Breathing-Related Disorders

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep-related breathing disorder marked by repeated episodes of upper airway blockage during sleep. These interruptions can reduce oxygen levels and disrupt restful sleep, leading to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and mood disturbances. OSA is often associated with snoring and observed pauses in breathing. Contributing factors include anatomical features, obesity, and age. Effective diagnosis often involves overnight monitoring. Treatment options range from lifestyle adjustments and positive airway pressure devices to oral appliances and surgical interventions. Understanding and managing OSA is essential for improving sleep quality and reducing related health risks.

Restless Legs Syndrome and Periodic Limb Movement Disorder

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD) are neurological conditions that affect movement during rest and sleep. RLS is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by discomfort, especially during periods of inactivity. This can delay sleep onset and affect overall rest quality. PLMD involves involuntary, repetitive movements of the limbs, usually occurring during sleep and often disrupting sleep cycles. Though distinct, these conditions can co-exist and impact daily life. Understanding their underlying mechanisms is key to managing symptoms and improving sleep. Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes, behavioral strategies, and individualized medical care.

Narcolepsy and Hypersomnia Syndromes

Narcolepsy and Hypersomnia Syndromes are neurological conditions that significantly impact daily functioning by altering normal sleep-wake cycles. Narcolepsy is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness), sleep paralysis, and hallucinations during sleep transitions. Idiopathic hypersomnia involves prolonged nighttime sleep and persistent daytime drowsiness without a known cause. Both disorders can lead to cognitive difficulties, reduced alertness, and challenges in professional or academic settings. Accurate diagnosis typically requires sleep studies and comprehensive evaluation. Management often includes tailored behavioral strategies, scheduled naps, and medical therapy aimed at enhancing alertness and regulating sleep patterns to improve quality of life.

Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorders

Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorders occur when an individual’s internal body clock is misaligned with the external environment, affecting the timing of sleep and wakefulness. These disorders can lead to difficulty falling asleep, waking too early, or feeling unrested despite a full night’s sleep. Common types include Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder, Advanced Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder, Irregular Sleep-Wake Rhythm, and Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder. They often affect shift workers, frequent travelers, and individuals with vision impairments. Management strategies include light therapy, behavioral adjustments, and timed activities to realign the sleep schedule. Early recognition and consistent sleep routines are key to improving overall rest quality.

Parasomnias: Night Terrors, Sleepwalking, and REM Behavior Disorder

Parasomnias are disruptive sleep-related conditions that involve abnormal movements, behaviors, or experiences during sleep. Night terrors typically occur in non-REM sleep and are marked by sudden arousals with intense fear, often without recollection. Sleepwalking involves complex behaviors like walking or performing routine tasks while partially asleep, usually during deep sleep. REM Behavior Disorder (RBD) is characterized by dream enactment due to a lack of muscle paralysis during REM sleep, which can lead to potential injury. Understanding these phenomena is essential for accurate diagnosis and management, often involving a combination of clinical evaluation, sleep studies, and tailored therapeutic approaches.

Sleep Disorders in Children and Adolescents

Sleep disorders in children and adolescents are increasingly recognized as significant health concerns that impact development, behavior, and academic performance. Conditions such as insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and circadian rhythm disturbances can interfere with restorative rest, leading to mood changes, concentration difficulties, and growth issues. Early identification and age-appropriate interventions are essential for long-term well-being. Factors such as screen time, school stress, and inconsistent sleep routines often contribute to disrupted patterns. Pediatric sleep assessments, behavioral strategies, and family-centered care play vital roles in managing these conditions effectively, ensuring healthier sleep habits and better overall outcomes for young individuals.

Sleep Disorders in the Elderly

Sleep disorders are increasingly common among older adults, often resulting from changes in circadian rhythms, medical conditions, or medication use. As people age, they may experience lighter, fragmented sleep, early awakenings, or increased daytime fatigue. Conditions such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome frequently affect this age group, impacting their overall well-being and cognitive function. Understanding the unique challenges seniors face in achieving restorative rest is essential for effective care. Personalized approaches that include lifestyle adjustments, behavioral strategies, and professional guidance can significantly improve sleep quality and support healthier aging in the elderly population.

Genetics and Epigenetics of Sleep Disorders

Sleep patterns and disorders are influenced by a complex interplay of genetic and epigenetic factors. Research has identified specific genes associated with circadian rhythms, melatonin production, and sleep regulation. Variations in these genes can increase the likelihood of conditions like insomnia, narcolepsy, or restless legs syndrome. Epigenetic modifications—such as DNA methylation and histone changes—can alter gene expression in response to lifestyle and environmental factors, impacting sleep health over time. Understanding these mechanisms offers insights into personalized approaches for managing sleep disorders and highlights the importance of early detection and targeted strategies in sleep medicine research.

Pharmacological Treatments for Sleep Disorders

Pharmacological therapies play a vital role in managing various sleep disorders when behavioral or lifestyle interventions alone are insufficient. Common medications include benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepine hypnotics, melatonin receptor agonists, and certain antidepressants tailored to address conditions such as insomnia, restless legs syndrome, and narcolepsy. Treatment decisions depend on the type, severity, and underlying cause of the disorder. Clinicians carefully evaluate benefits and risks, considering individual response and potential tolerance. Ongoing research explores new agents targeting sleep-regulating neurotransmitters. Pharmacological interventions, when used appropriately under medical supervision, can significantly improve sleep quality, daytime function, and overall well-being for affected individuals.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is a structured, evidence-based approach that helps individuals address the underlying causes of persistent sleep difficulties. Rather than relying on medication, CBT-I focuses on modifying thoughts, behaviors, and routines that interfere with rest. Techniques include sleep restriction, stimulus control, and cognitive restructuring to reduce anxiety related to sleep. This therapy improves sleep quality by promoting healthier sleep habits and altering negative beliefs about rest. Widely endorsed by health professionals, CBT-I has shown lasting effectiveness in treating chronic sleep issues, making it a preferred method for those seeking long-term improvement in sleep patterns and overall well-being.

Chronotherapy and Light Therapy in Sleep Medicine

Chronotherapy and Light Therapy are advanced techniques in sleep medicine aimed at realigning disrupted sleep-wake cycles. Chronotherapy gradually adjusts bedtime and wake time to reset the body’s internal clock, particularly useful for circadian rhythm disorders. Light therapy uses exposure to bright, timed light to influence melatonin production and promote alertness during the day. This method is especially effective for conditions like delayed sleep phase and seasonal sleep issues. Both therapies are non-invasive and tailored to individual needs, supporting natural rhythms and enhancing rest. They are increasingly used in clinical settings to improve sleep health and daytime functioning without pharmaceutical intervention.

Advances in CPAP and Alternative Therapies for Sleep Apnea

Advances in CPAP and Alternative Therapies for Sleep Apnea have significantly improved comfort, compliance, and treatment outcomes. Modern CPAP devices are quieter, more compact, and equipped with smart features that adjust pressure in real-time. Heated humidifiers and adaptive pressure settings enhance user experience. For those seeking alternatives, options include oral appliance therapy, positional therapy, and surgical interventions tailored to airway structure. Emerging technologies like hypoglossal nerve stimulation and myofunctional therapy offer promising results. Personalized treatment plans, guided by sleep specialists, now play a central role in managing sleep apnea, helping individuals achieve better nighttime breathing and improved daytime function.

Integrative and Complementary Therapies: Yoga, Meditation, and Acupuncture

Integrative and complementary therapies such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture offer holistic approaches to improving sleep and overall well-being. Yoga combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and mindfulness, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Meditation encourages mental calmness and emotional balance, which can ease the mind before bedtime. Acupuncture, an ancient practice involving the stimulation of specific points on the body, may help regulate sleep by restoring energy flow and reducing tension. These therapies support natural sleep processes and can complement traditional treatments, providing individuals with gentle, non-invasive options to enhance sleep quality and manage sleep disturbances effectively.

Digital Therapeutics and Mobile Apps for Sleep Management

Digital therapeutics and mobile applications are transforming the landscape of sleep management by offering accessible, personalized tools to support healthier rest. These technologies use data-driven insights, behavioral strategies, and user engagement to guide individuals through effective sleep routines. Features often include sleep tracking, relaxation exercises, guided meditation, and evidence-based programs such as CBT-I. Many apps also offer feedback to help users recognize patterns and adjust habits. Designed with input from sleep experts, these tools are increasingly integrated into wellness plans, offering non-invasive, scalable support for improving sleep quality and duration—empowering users to take active roles in their own sleep health.

Role of Diet and Nutrition in Sleep Health

Diet and nutrition play a significant role in supporting healthy sleep patterns. Certain foods contain nutrients like magnesium, tryptophan, and melatonin, which can promote relaxation and regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins help maintain stable blood sugar levels, reducing nighttime awakenings. Conversely, excessive intake of caffeine, sugar, and heavy meals close to bedtime may disrupt sleep quality. Hydration levels also influence rest, as both dehydration and overhydration can cause discomfort during the night. Understanding the connection between diet and sleep empowers individuals to make mindful choices that enhance overall sleep health.

Sleep Surgery and Oral Appliance Therapy

Sleep surgery and oral appliance therapy are effective treatment options for individuals with obstructive sleep conditions, particularly when other methods prove insufficient. Sleep surgeries, such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or nasal procedures, aim to remove or reposition tissues that block airflow during rest. Oral appliance therapy involves custom-fitted devices that reposition the jaw or tongue to maintain an open airway. These approaches are often recommended for those who experience discomfort with traditional devices or require targeted intervention. Both treatments are supported by clinical evidence and are tailored to individual needs, offering improved nighttime breathing, reduced disruptions, and better overall rest quality.

Sleep Disorders and Neuromodulation Techniques

Sleep Disorders and Neuromodulation Techniques explore innovative methods to improve sleep by targeting the nervous system’s activity. Neuromodulation involves the use of electrical or magnetic stimulation to influence brain regions involved in sleep regulation. Techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), and deep brain stimulation (DBS) have shown promise in addressing conditions like insomnia, hypersomnia, and restless legs syndrome. These approaches offer alternatives for patients who do not respond well to traditional therapies. Ongoing research aims to optimize protocols and better understand how neuromodulation can restore healthy sleep patterns and enhance overall neurological function.

Telemedicine in Sleep Disorders Diagnosis and Care

Telemedicine in Sleep Disorders Diagnosis and Care has transformed access to specialized sleep health services, offering convenience and timely support for patients worldwide. Through virtual consultations, clinicians can assess sleep patterns, review symptoms, and recommend diagnostic tests such as home sleep studies. This approach reduces barriers related to geography and mobility, enabling continuous monitoring and personalized treatment adjustments. Telemedicine supports education on sleep hygiene and therapy adherence, enhancing patient engagement. By integrating digital tools and remote communication, it improves the efficiency and reach of sleep disorder management, fostering better outcomes and greater patient satisfaction in both urban and underserved communities.

Sleep and Mental Health: Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD

Sleep and mental health are closely interconnected, with conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD often disrupting restful sleep. Poor sleep can worsen symptoms of these disorders, creating a cycle that affects emotional regulation and cognitive function. Depression frequently leads to insomnia or hypersomnia, while anxiety can cause difficulty falling or staying asleep due to heightened arousal. PTSD is commonly associated with nightmares and fragmented sleep. Addressing sleep disturbances in mental health treatment is essential, as improving sleep quality can significantly enhance emotional resilience and recovery. Integrative approaches targeting both sleep and mental health offer promising pathways for better patient outcomes.

Neuroscience of Sleep and Dreaming

The neuroscience of sleep and dreaming explores the brain's intricate activity during different sleep stages, particularly REM and non-REM cycles. During sleep, specific neural circuits regulate transitions between wakefulness and rest, involving structures like the hypothalamus, thalamus, and brainstem. REM sleep is closely linked to vivid dreaming, emotional regulation, and memory processing. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine play crucial roles in these processes. Advances in brain imaging and electrophysiology have deepened our understanding of how dreams reflect internal thoughts and emotional states. This field continues to uncover how sleep supports cognitive health, learning, and emotional resilience across the lifespan.

Sleep Deprivation: Cognitive, Emotional, and Physical Impacts

Sleep deprivation significantly affects cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being. Even short-term sleep loss can impair memory, attention, and decision-making abilities, reducing overall productivity. Emotionally, individuals may experience increased irritability, mood swings, and reduced resilience to stress. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to heightened risks of anxiety and low mood. Physically, it can weaken the immune system, disrupt hormonal balance, and contribute to long-term health concerns such as cardiovascular challenges and metabolic imbalance. Quality sleep is essential for restoring the body and mind. Understanding these impacts highlights the importance of consistent rest as a foundation for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Sleep Disorders and Cardiometabolic Health

Sleep disorders significantly influence cardiometabolic health, linking poor sleep to conditions such as hypertension, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Disrupted sleep patterns, including sleep apnea and insomnia, can alter metabolic function, elevate stress hormones, and increase inflammation. These physiological changes place extra strain on the cardiovascular system, impair glucose regulation, and disrupt lipid metabolism. Early detection and proper management of sleep-related issues are essential to support overall metabolic balance and reduce long-term health risks. Promoting restorative sleep through behavioral interventions, lifestyle adjustments, and targeted therapies can play a vital role in maintaining heart and metabolic system resilience.

Emerging Research and Future Trends in Sleep Medicine

Emerging research in sleep medicine is unveiling deeper insights into the complex relationship between sleep and overall health. Advances in neuroimaging and wearable technology are enabling more precise monitoring of sleep patterns and disorders. Genetic and biomarker studies are identifying individual differences in sleep needs and vulnerabilities. Artificial intelligence is being integrated into diagnostics, enhancing early detection of sleep-related conditions. Future trends include personalized treatment plans, digital health tools, and non-invasive therapies aimed at improving sleep quality. As understanding grows, sleep medicine is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary, shaping a future where tailored strategies enhance both rest and long-term wellness.

VISA Process

Participants planning to attend the 7^th World Congress on Sleep Disorders and Therapeutics in Amsterdam, Netherlands, scheduled for June 22–23, 2026, may require a Schengen Visa to enter the country. We highly encourage all attendees—especially international delegates, researchers, clinicians, and exhibitors—to review visa requirements and apply well in advance.

Do You Need a Visa?

Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. To determine if a visa is required, we recommend checking with the Netherlands embassy or consulate in your home country or visiting the official Netherlands Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) website for up-to-date details.

Official Letter of Invitation

To support your visa application, we are pleased to provide an Official Letter of Invitation. This letter serves as confirmation of your intent to attend the 7^th World Congress on Sleep Disorders and Therapeutics and includes essential details such as:

• Name of the conference

• Your full name and affiliation

• Confirmation of registration and payment

• Conference dates and venue details

Note: Invitation letters are only issued to individuals who have completed their conference registration and payment. This policy ensures the integrity and legitimacy of our visa support process.

How to Request an Invitation Letter

After successful registration, participants may request the invitation letter by contacting the organizing committee with the following details:

• Full name (as in passport)

• Passport number

• Nationality

• Affiliation and position

• Registration confirmation number

Important Guidelines

• We recommend applying for a visa at least 8–10 weeks before the conference.

• The organizers are not authorized to intervene in visa applications or guarantee approval.

• All expenses related to visa processing, travel, accommodation, and registration are the responsibility of the participant.

• Invitation letters will be sent in PDF format via email. Printed copies can be provided upon special request.

Contact Us

For any questions related to travel documentation or visa support, feel free to reach out to our organizing team.

Market Analysis

Global Overview

The global sleep disorder therapeutics market has witnessed substantial growth over the past decade due to the increasing prevalence of sleep-related health conditions such as insomnia, sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and narcolepsy. According to recent market research, the industry is projected to reach USD 14.5 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% from 2024 to 2030.

Key drivers include rising awareness about the health impacts of poor sleep, advancements in diagnostic technologies, and the growing adoption of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and non-invasive treatment modalities. Additionally, the integration of digital sleep monitoring devices, wearable technologies, and AI-based diagnostic tools is reshaping patient care and sleep management strategies.

Europe Market Insights

Europe holds a significant share of the global market, driven by increasing government initiatives, expanded healthcare access, and strong research infrastructure. Countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK are leading in clinical trials, treatment adoption, and public health interventions aimed at tackling chronic sleep disorders. The Netherlands, in particular, has emerged as a hub for sleep research, with collaborative efforts between academic institutions, healthcare providers, and industry stakeholders.

The regional growth is further fueled by the rising geriatric population, an increase in lifestyle-induced sleep disturbances, and a surge in behavioral sleep medicine practices. Furthermore, the growing number of sleep clinics, neurology centers, and sleep-focused startups across Europe reflects a dynamic and expanding therapeutic landscape.

Innovation and Research Trends

Recent advances in pharmacological therapies, neurostimulation, and digital therapeutics have opened new avenues for treatment and prevention. The focus has shifted toward personalized medicine, targeting individual sleep patterns and disorders with precision therapies. In parallel, researchers are exploring the links between sleep health and mental well-being, highlighting the role of sleep in managing conditions like anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline.

Global pharmaceutical companies and biotech firms are investing in R&D to develop next-generation therapeutics, while academic collaborations are contributing to evidence-based clinical guidelines.

Conclusion

The 7th World Congress on Sleep Disorders and Therapeutics in Amsterdam presents a unique platform for stakeholders across academia, clinical practice, and industry to explore cutting-edge developments and foster global partnerships. With the sleep therapeutics market on a growth trajectory, this congress offers critical insights into the future of sleep health, innovation, and therapeutic excellence.