Investigating the effectiveness of mobile Health applications in the self-management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) constitutes main cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Specifically, it constitutes the fourth cause of death. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), COPD is estimated to be the third cause of death and the seventh cause of morbidity worldwide by 2030.

Objective: The aim of this study is to explore the effectiveness of m-Health apps in self-management of COPD.

Method: In this study English articles from literature were included from June 2014 to June 2019, which were digitally available in PubMed and google scholar. For the research, included keywords were combinations of the keywords “mobile health”, “m-Health”, “m-Health apps”, “COPD”, “self-management”, “self-management of COPD”, “exacerbation”.

Results: COPD is a lung disease that is characterized by a persistent reduction of airflow. It develops slowly and usually becomes apparent after 40 or 50 years of age. The most common symptoms of COPD are breathlessness, chronic cough and sputum (mucous) production. Patients with COPD are susceptible to the risk of frequent episodes of exacerbations. Consequently, they have high risks of hospital readmission. Specifically, one in eight emergency admissions relating to COPD and one in three patients with COPD being readmitted within 28-30 days of a hospital admission for an exacerbation. Effective self-management of COPD through clinical and social support, is essential to improve outcomes such as the patient’s quality of life and to reduce hospital admissions. In order to assess the increasing burden on both the individual and the health system, a literature review was conducted for the past five years of relevant researchers. The results of the review showed significant change in the awareness level, behavioral intention and compliance in medicine use. Conclusion: The m-Health apps can empower the patients of COPD, improve their quality of life and increase their intentions in health behavioral tasks.   

Keywords: Mobile health, m-Health, m-Health apps, COPD, self-management of COPD