My Biggest Takeaways from SLEEP 2026
Written by Dr Shikha Mistry – recipient of WSCN’s 2026 Dawn Award, which funded her
attendance at SLEEP 2026. WSCN is grateful to Resmed for their support of this
scholarship.
About Dr Shikha Mistry
As a dedicated sleep medicine physician at the Ohio Sleep Medicine Institute, Dr. Mistry
is passionate about advancing patient-centered care and improving sleep health across
diverse populations. Her work spans circadian rhythm disorders, hypersomnolence disorders,
women’s sleep health, and pediatric sleep medicine, reflecting her commitment to
translating sleep and circadian science into meaningful clinical practice.
WSCN granted Dr Mistry the 2026 Dawn Award in recognition of both her clinical work and
for how she is making a difference through education, advocacy, and compassionate care.
Dr. Shikha Mistry at the WSCN Booth
Dr. Mistry’s reflections from the conference
Every year, the SLEEP conference reminds me why I chose sleep medicine. It’s an
opportunity to learn about the latest research, connect with colleagues from all over the
world, and come home with new ideas that will ultimately benefit my patients.
This year’s meeting left me especially excited about where the field is headed.
Orexin Agonists: A New Era in Sleep Medicine
One of the biggest topics throughout the conference was the development of orexin
agonists. For years, we’ve had medications that just “treat the symptoms.” Now, we’re
seeing therapies designed to activate the orexin pathway for patients with disorders
characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness.
The excitement surrounding these medications was impossible to miss. While more research
is still underway, orexin agonists have the potential to transform the treatment of
disorders like narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia by targeting the underlying biology
rather than simply promoting wakefulness. It’s an exciting time for both clinicians and
patients.
Learning from the Hypersomnia Community
One of the most meaningful experiences at the conference wasn’t a lecture; it was spending
time with hypersomnia advocates and hearing their stories.
As physicians, we spend a great deal of time reviewing sleep studies, prescribing
medications, and following treatment guidelines. Conferences like this are an important
reminder that behind every diagnosis is a person navigating work, school, family life, and
relationships while living with a chronic sleep disorder.
Listening to advocates share their experiences reinforced the importance of partnering with
patients, understanding their goals, and continuing to push for better treatments and
greater awareness of central disorders of hypersomnolence.
Collaboration Drives Innovation
Another highlight was connecting with sleep physicians, researchers, technologists, and
industry leaders who are all working toward the same goal—improving sleep health.
Some of the best learning happens outside the lecture halls through conversations that
challenge our perspectives and inspire new ideas.
Dr. Shikha Mistry being interviewed about her experience at SLEEP by Resmed
Bringing It Back to My Patients
One of my goals after every conference is to bring what I’ve learned back to my clinic.
Whether it’s incorporating new evidence into treatment decisions, staying informed about
emerging therapies, or simply gaining a deeper appreciation for the patient experience,
these meetings ultimately help me provide better care.
I’m excited to follow ongoing research on orexin agonists and to see how these therapies
may reshape the landscape of hypersomnia treatment in the coming years.
SLEEP 2026 left me inspired not only by the scientific advances but also by the people
dedicated to improving the lives of those living with sleep disorders. I can’t wait to see
what the next year brings.
Shikha Mistry, MD.
Pathways to Vitality Scholars Network
WSCN’s Pathways to Vitality Scholars Network is a global scholarship and fellowship
initiative designed to empower emerging and established voices in wellness, sleep, and
circadian health.
This program bridges the gaps between knowledge and access, science and practice, day and
night, local and global, helping individuals expand their learning, share their insights,
and lead transformative change in health and wellbeing.
To find out more about our Pathways to Vitality Scholars Network and how to apply for a
scholarship, reach out to us via email:
info@sleephealth.org