What is ResMed?
ResMed is a medical device company founded in Sydney in 1989 that makes CPAP machines and masks for treating sleep apnoea. Its technology grew from research by Australian physician Colin Sullivan.
In 1980, Professor Colin Sullivan at the University of Sydney developed continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, a treatment that uses gentle air pressure through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep.
Obstructive sleep apnoea causes people to stop breathing repeatedly during sleep, leading to tiredness and health problems. CPAP became the standard treatment.
Global growth
ResMed was founded by Peter Farrell in 1989 to commercialise CPAP technology. The company moved its headquarters to San Diego in the United States, while keeping major operations in Sydney.
Today ResMed sells devices in more than 140 countries and has added cloud-connected machines that let doctors monitor patients remotely.
Sullivan's invention is often cited as one of Australia's most important medical breakthroughs. He reportedly built his first CPAP device using a vacuum cleaner motor and plastic tubing.
Did You Know?
Sleep apnoea affects many millions of people worldwide, many of whom are undiagnosed.