The uptake of technology and the SENSOR study

Introduction: SENSOR is a study evaluating a sputum biomarker, alongside daily health assessments, to predict exacerbations in patients colonised with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA). A previous study in patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) had a mean age of 30.8 with 60% of patients having an adherence of >90%1. The use of technology in the UK is higher than the EU average, however, 38% of adults have no or low level basic computer skills2. Objectives: · Predict PA exacerbations using a sputum biomarker, telemetry data and symptoms in patients with chronic lung disease (excluding CF). · Test feasibility, adherence and acceptability of self-monitoring equipment in the home. Methods: 30 patients with COPD or bronchiectasis were recruited. Participants collect daily telemetry information (BP, pulse, weight, SpO2, activity, peak flow and FEV1) and symptom score; as well as daily sputum and urine samples for up to 6 months. Data is collected via an iPad app developed by the research team and Aseptika Ltd. Results: · The mean age of participants in the trial was 65.1 (30 to 79), median 68. 43% male and 57% female. · Study participants uploaded daily data with >99% adherence (>75% daily data uploaded) at 3 months. Conclusions: This technology has previously been tested in CF; a condition affecting a younger population. Despite the population in this study being older, the adherence rate was higher. Self monitoring technology of vital signs and symptom reporting via an app can be used by patients of all ages. References Detecting early markers of CF-related pulmonary exacerbations using home telemetry and sputum biomarkers; Emem-Fong Ukor et al http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/main/home.