Advanced Telemonitoring of Patients With COPD in Home Environment

SHAPES Advanced Telemonitoring of Patients With COPD in Home Environment

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the leading and rising causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The most important etiopathogenetic agent is smoking. However, air-pollution probably also plays a crucial role in the disease development, progression and exacerbations. The multimodal-telemedicine approach may provide a useful tool in the patient follow-up with the aim to reduce disease exacerbation rate and improve the health-related quality of life. The study aims to investigate the effects and utility of advanced telemonitoring in elderly COPD patients. All data will be integrated in a single web-based platform in order to analyse the mutual effects of different conditions and variables.

Inclusion Criteria:

• COPD
• ≥ 60 years of age
• Informed written and verbal consent
• Ability to participate in study activities

Exclusion Criteria:

• Active smoking
• Respiratory failure requiring oxygenotherapy or ventilation support
• Severe psychological disturbances
• Absence of collaboration (informed consent)
• Other comorbid pulmonary disease
• Symptomatic heart failure
• Motor neuron diseases (e.g. amyotrophic lateral sclerosis etc.)