Vivian Asare, MD, is a sleep medicine specialist who often treats patients with obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when one’s airways are temporarily and partially blocked. Sleep apnea makes it difficult for someone to sleep deeply because of the interruptions the breathing issues cause. Sleep apnea not only leads to fatigue, but it can also damage heart muscles.
A common tool in treating sleep apnea is CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), which uses a face mask to blow constant and steady air to help people breathe while they sleep.
Dr. Asare formed Compassionate CPAP Service, which helps patients in underserved communities gain access to CPAP machines. She also runs a CPAP support group at the Yale Sleep Center.
Born in Ghana and educated in the United States, Dr. Asare attributes her interest in service to her early years. In medical school, she organized many service projects, including a mission trip to Haiti.
Dr. Asare is the associate medical director of the Yale Centers for Sleep Medicine and vice chief of diversity, equity, and inclusion in Yale School of Medicine’s Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine Section.
