Apr. 30, 2009
Philips Respironics, Murrysville, Pa., announced its behind the scenes support of NBC's The Biggest Loser: Couples. The reality television show challenges and encourages overweight contestants to shed pounds and become healthier. For the first time in the show's history, contestants on The Biggest Loser: Couples received comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. Philips Respironics assisted in providing medical equipment, testing, treatment, and therapy to diagnosed contestants competing in the show's seventh season.
"It is amazing to see the contestants' progress to healthier living firsthand and to educate cast and crew about the importance of restful sleep," said Pam Minkley, a clinical trainer and member of the on-site Philips Respironics team. "Being involved in The Biggest Loser: Couples and with the show's medical team behind the scenes has allowed us to deliver an important health message to contestants, their families, and the viewers."
The diagnosis took place last fall in a hotel where 10 beds and a room for monitoring, were used to test each contestant for one full night. Sleep studies and overall health assessments were given to all participants, along with extensive education about sleep-disordered breathing. Sixteen of the 22 contestants were diagnosed with OSA and were given equipment and therapy.
To support this effort, Philips Respironics provided diagnostic tools (ProTech sensors, oximeters, electrodes, and set-up materials) and Alice 5 Diagnostic Sleep Systems. Also, therapeutic equipment was used, including REMstar Auto M Series with A-Flex, BiPAP Pro with Bi-Flex, EverFlo Q Oxygen Concentrator, and a variety of masks. Those contestants diagnosed with OSA were monitored using EncoreAnywhere with a combination of SmartCard downloads and modems.
As contestants leave the show, Philips Respironics continues to provide support on weekly phone consultations. The contestants also send in SmartCards, which enables their therapy data to be monitored.