Alberta Innovator's Cooling Sleep Tech Gains Harvard Medical Validation
When considering cancer, sleep quality might not be the first concern that comes to mind. However, for Lara Smith, an entrepreneur from Alberta, it became a central focus over a decade ago when her sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. The diagnosis led to severe night sweats and menopausal symptoms that drastically impaired her sister's ability to rest, even during post-treatment periods.
From Personal Struggle to Innovative Solution
Smith, a native of Edmonton who was working in Calgary at the time, dedicated herself to finding a solution. Employed in the women's division at Mark's workwear company, she had expertise in sourcing textiles and clothing. Despite extensive global searches, she could not locate pajamas that effectively addressed her sister's needs for cooling comfort without compromising on style.
Determined to make a difference, Smith made a bold decision: she resigned from her job, secured a second mortgage on her home, and embarked on a two-year research and development journey. This effort culminated in the creation of Lusomé, her company specializing in sleep-health products.
Breakthrough Products and Recognition
The initial offering from Lusomé was a line of cooling pajamas, which quickly gained acclaim and were even featured on Oprah's Favorite Things list. These garments are designed to help women experiencing hot flashes and night sweats stay cool while maintaining comfort and a fashionable appearance.
Even after her sister achieved cancer-free status for over ten years, Smith's commitment to improving sleep persisted. Her latest innovation involves a cotton bedsheet embedded with special technology aimed at preventing overheating during sleep.
Harvard Medical School Study Validates Efficacy
In a significant development, Smith's new product underwent an 18-month clinical trial conducted by Harvard Medical School, with results published in the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers. The study involved 64 participants, 89% of whom were female, contributing more than 2,600 days of data.
Participants completed baseline questionnaires, maintained daily diaries for six weeks, and provided end-of-study feedback. The research utilized established metrics such as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Restorative Sleep Questionnaire to assess sleep quality improvements.
The findings revealed strong positive outcomes, with the cooling technology demonstrating effectiveness in enhancing sleep for individuals dealing with overheating issues. Smith acknowledged that committing to such a clinical trial was a calculated risk, but the results have validated her approach, positioning Lusomé as a leader in the field of sleep science.
This achievement not only highlights the potential of innovative sleep solutions but also underscores the importance of addressing sleep health in medical contexts, particularly for those recovering from conditions like cancer.
