HMRI trials smartphone app to help asthma patients manage breathlessness

Newy 87.8 FM – Hunter Medical Research Institute researchers are trialling a smartphone app designed to help adults with asthma manage everyday breathlessness and become more physically active.

The BRAID Study, or Breathlessness Relief in Asthma through a Digital Intervention, is being led by the University of Newcastle's Professor Vanessa McDonald and Dr Hayley Lewthwaite from HMRI's Breathing and Lung Health Research Program.

A previous study from the program found that 51 per cent of people with mild-to-moderate asthma and 49 per cent of those with severe asthma experience physically limiting breathlessness despite treatment.

"Breathlessness can reshape almost every aspect of everyday life. Its impact extends well beyond physical limitation into emotions, relationships, identity, work and participation," Professor McDonald said.

The BRAID intervention combines an in-person nurse-led self-management session with ongoing digital support through the app. The platform includes expert-led video content demonstrating breathing exercises and sitting or standing positions that support breathlessness self-management.

Professor McDonald said it was important people know the difference between chronic breathlessness and acute breathlessness related to a worsening of their condition, with prompt medical attention needed as a priority in the latter case.

"The big picture is to help people breathe better to live the life they wish for," she said.

The study comes as Asthma Week shines a light on the experiences of people living with asthma.

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