Based on a study by the Global Initiative for Asthma, up to 70 to 80 percent of asthma patients are unable to use their inhalers correctly, leading to poor asthma control and increased risk of exacerbation and adverse effects.
As response to the need for better patient education on lung health, a new smartphone app has been launched to provide guidance to asthma sufferers on how to use their medication, such as inhalers, and manage their disease more effectively.
Developed by Mundipharma, the asthma inhaler app called BREATHERITE makes use of technology combined with doctor education in the interest of proper patient care.
Using augmented reality, BREATHERITE projects a visual exploration of the various areas of the lungs, helping physicians guide their patients through an in-depth understanding of their lung disease. It also has a face tracking assessment tool to test a patient’s inhaler technique as well as various lifestyle advisories for enhancing one’s well-being. Users simply need to input basic information for a more personalized interaction.
The app can be downloaded on all smartphones and can identify most types of inhaler devices. While it aids patients in managing their asthma, patients using the app are still advised to visit and consult with their doctors.
The Philippine College of Chest Physicians supports Mundipharma Philippines’ digital initiatives, which was formalized in a signing during the 37th Annual Chest Convention of the PCCP.
Outgoing PCCP President Dr. Charles Yu said, “As a teacher of 30 years, this is something we only dreamt of. I’ve always wanted to see if there could be a visualization of the actual airways down to its lowest points. This instrument can revolutionize how we educate patients in the community.”
