What did the research discover?
Researchers studied whether using computers and mobile devices, like smartphones and tablets, could help people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) manage their condition better than traditional methods, such as face-to-face meetings or written materials.
To find the most reliable studies, the researchers searched multiple medical databases in November 2016. They looked for studies that tested digital tools for COPD self-management compared to more traditional methods.
Three studies met their criteria, including a total of 1,580 participants. However, after removing people who had not been officially diagnosed with COPD, the final analysis included 557 participants. Of these, 319 people used smart technology for COPD self-management, while 238 received face-to-face or written information. The average participant age was 64, and most were men, since one study included many military veterans.
The studies measured different health outcomes, including quality of life, hospital visits, physical activity, and smoking habits. The key findings included:
- Quality of life: At four, six, and twelve months, people using smart technology reported better symptom management and health status compared to those receiving traditional care. However, at 12 months, there was no significant difference between the two groups.
- Hospital visits and worsening symptoms: One study measured hospitalizations and COPD flare-ups at 12 months and found no major difference between those using technology and those using traditional methods.
- Physical activity: At four and six months, people using smart technology took more steps per day than those in the traditional group. However, by 12 months, the difference disappeared.
- Smoking habits: Only one study looked at smoking and found that smart technology did not significantly help people quit smoking.
- Side effects: One study reported more negative health events in the technology group (43 events) compared to the traditional group (8 events), but the reason for this is unclear.
Overall, smart technology seemed to help in the short term but did not show a lasting benefit over a year.
How can I apply this information?
This study suggests that using smart technology—such as apps, tablets, or computers—may help people with COPD improve their quality of life and physical activity levels for several months. However, the benefits did not seem to last for a full year, and it is unclear whether these tools reduce hospital visits or help with smoking cessation.
Because this is research, no strong recommendations can be made based on these findings. The studies had limitations, including a high risk of bias and differences in how outcomes were measured. More research is needed to understand whether smart technology can provide lasting benefits for people with COPD and how to keep people engaged in using these tools over time.
If you have COPD and are interested in using technology to manage your condition, you may find it helpful in the short term. However, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a long-term plan that works best for you.
Source:
McCabe C, McCann M, Brady AM. Computer and mobile technology interventions for self‐management in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2017(5).https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6481891/
