The Use of Medical Devices to Monitor Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients Study BREATH-TRACHER 2
This research wants to find out if a wearable device can help keep an eye on people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) from their own homes. The study is particularly interested in those who have previously experienced severe flare-ups of their COPD that needed a hospital stay. Researchers will test how well the device measures important body signals in these patients. They also want to see if monitoring with this device can help doctors adjust medication before, during, or after a COPD flare-up, potentially guiding daily treatment decisions. The goal is to explore new ways to support people with COPD using technology.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine being able to keep a closer eye on your breathing condition from the comfort of your home. This study is exploring just that for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It's called BREATH-TRACHER 2, and its main aim is to see if a small, wearable device can help doctors monitor your health more effectively.
We know that COPD can sometimes lead to sudden worsening of symptoms, called a flare-up or exacerbation, which can be worrying and even require a hospital visit. This study is focusing on individuals who have already experienced such severe flare-ups. The researchers want to test how good this new wearable device is at picking up important health signals from your body.
Beyond simply monitoring, the study also wants to understand if the information gathered by the device could help doctors decide if your medication needs adjusting. This could mean changes before, during, or after a flare-up, with the hope that it might guide your day-to-day treatment and help manage your COPD better.
Key takeaways
- New study exploring remote monitoring for COPD patients.
- Uses a wearable device to track health signals.
- Focuses on people who have had severe COPD flare-ups.
- Aims to see if monitoring can help manage medication.
- Requires ability to use a smartphone or computer.
- Not testing new medications, but observing current ones.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a confirmed diagnosis of COPD. You should be happy to follow the study rules, attend any necessary appointments, and be able to use a smartphone or computer. It's also important that you can understand and speak English and are able to provide your written consent to take part.
There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have other serious breathing conditions that are causing most of your symptoms, like severe asthma or lung cancer, or if you've recently had lung surgery. Serious health problems other than COPD, such as severe heart, kidney, or liver disease, or certain issues like severe rheumatoid arthritis, might also mean you can't take part. We also can't include people who are pregnant, or if you're taking high doses of steroid medication for a long time.
Finally, if you're already involved in another clinical trial, particularly one where you're trying a new medication, you might not be eligible. The researchers will carefully review your medical history to make sure the study is a safe and suitable option 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 diagnosis of COPD?
- Can you use a smartphone or computer?
- Are you able to speak and understand English?
- Have you not had lung surgery in the last 6 months?
- Are you not currently pregnant?
What does participation involve?
The study involves wearing a special device that will monitor your body signals. You won't need to take any new medication as part of this study; instead, the device will be used to see how effective your current COPD medications are. The study primarily focuses on observation using the device. You will also need to be available for study visits and be able to use a smartphone or computer to help with the monitoring. More details about the exact number of visits, their duration, and the total length of your participation would be discussed by the study team.
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 cause breathing difficulties.
What is a wearable medical device?
It's a small device, like a smartwatch or a patch, that you wear on your body. It can measure things like your heart rate or breathing patterns.
Will I get new medication if I join this study?
No, this study is about monitoring with a device, not about trying new medications. It will observe how your current medications are working.
Do I need a smartphone to join?
Yes, you need to be able to use a smartphone or computer as part of participating in the study.
What is a COPD exacerbation?
It's when your COPD symptoms suddenly get worse, like more coughing or breathlessness, sometimes needing a trip to the hospital.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.