Digital aide may increase patient control of asthma
For the 24 million Americans who have asthma, more information may mean more control of their disease. A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice showed the use of a new digital health technology may improve patients’ ability to control symptoms.
The Propeller Health Asthma Platform monitors short-acting β-agonist (SABA) and inhaled corticosteroid use in real-time. The platform provides detailed information about patterns of medication use and can notify patients with worsening asthma control.
“The research demonstrates that the benefits of telehealth go beyond monitoring medication adherence, but can also identify patterns of risk and impairment,” said Rajan Merchant, MD, the study’s principal investigator. “This additional information may allow more timely interventions and enhanced asthma management.”
Examining 495 individuals, the study found that those who with access to the digital health technology decreased SABA use, increased SABA-free days and improved overall control of their asthma.
Nicholas joined TriMed in 2016 as the managing editor of the Chicago office. After receiving his master’s from Roosevelt University, he worked in various writing/editing roles for magazines ranging in topic from billiards to metallurgy. Currently on Chicago’s north side, Nicholas keeps busy by running, reading and talking to his two cats.