The Use of Medical Devices to Monitor Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients Study BREATH-TRACHER 1
This study, called BREATH-TRACHER 1, is investigating a new way to monitor people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Researchers want to find out if a small, wearable medical device can effectively keep track of a patient's breathing signals from home. This could help doctors better understand how COPD affects individuals, especially after a serious flare-up that required hospital care. The study will also explore if this monitoring can show how well a person's usual medications are working before, during, and after a flare-up. The goal is to see if this technology could help guide daily treatment decisions and ultimately improve care for people with COPD. All participants must be 18 or over and have a COPD diagnosis to take part.
At a glance
What is this study about?
If you live with COPD, you know how important it is to manage your condition and understand when it might be getting worse. This study, called BREATH-TRACHER 1, is looking into a new way to do just that – using a small, wearable device that could help keep an eye on your breathing.
The main idea behind this study is to see if we can use this technology to monitor your breathing signals from home. This is especially important for people who have had severe COPD flare-ups that landed them in hospital. By continuously monitoring your breathing, doctors hope to get a clearer picture of your lung health and how your body responds to the condition. It could also help them spot any changes that might mean you need extra support sooner.
Another key part of this research is to understand how effective your current medications are. The study will look at how your prescribed medicines work before, during, and after a COPD flare-up. Researchers want to see if the information from the wearable device can give doctors clues about whether the medicines are doing their job well, and if this could help them adjust your daily treatment plan to better suit your needs. Ultimately, this research aims to find better ways to manage COPD and improve your daily life.
Key takeaways
- This study uses a small, wearable device to monitor breathing in people with COPD.
- It aims to understand COPD progression and how well medications work, especially after flare-ups.
- You need to be 18+ with a COPD diagnosis and able to use a smartphone/computer.
- Participation involves wearing a sensor and following study instructions.
- The goal is to improve future care for people with COPD.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be an adult aged 18 or over and have an official diagnosis of COPD. You should also be comfortable using a smartphone or computer and be able to understand information in English, both written and spoken. It's important that you're willing and able to follow the study's instructions and attend any necessary appointments.
There are certain reasons why you might not be able to take part. For example, if you have other serious lung conditions aside from your COPD that are causing most of your breathing problems, you probably won't be eligible. Also, if you've had major lung surgery in the last six months, or if you're pregnant, this study won't be suitable for you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have a current diagnosis of COPD?
- Are you able to use a smartphone or computer?
- Can you understand spoken and written English?
- Have you avoided major lung surgery in the last 6 months?
- Are you not pregnant?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be asked to wear a small sensor. This device will continuously monitor your breathing signals. You'll also need to be able to use a smartphone or computer, as this will likely be how the device connects and shares information. The study will also involve looking at how effectively your usual medications are working for your COPD. We don't know the exact number of visits or the total length of the study from this information, but typically, studies like this involve regular check-ins with the research team. You'll be given full details about what's involved before you agree to participate.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Oakview Medical Practice in AlexandriaVerified postcodeGlasgow, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is COPD?
COPD stands for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It's a group of lung conditions that make it difficult to breathe, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
What is a wearable medical device?
It's a small device you wear, similar to a fitness tracker, but designed to measure health information, in this case, your breathing.
Will this device replace my current doctor's visits?
No, this study is about exploring new monitoring methods. It will not replace your regular medical care or appointments with your doctor.
Do I need my own smartphone or computer?
Yes, you need to be able to use a smartphone or computer to take part in this study.
Is there any cost to me to participate?
Clinical trials generally do not charge participants. Any study-related equipment or monitoring should be provided by the research team.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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