Efficacy of Digital Therapeutics for Pulmonary Rehabilitation: A Multi-Center, Randomized Controlled Trial
Chul Kim, Hee Eun Choi, Chin Kook Rhee, Jun Hyeong Song, Jae Ha Lee
Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of digital therapeutics (DTx), EASYBREATH, for pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in patients with chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted at multiple centers. Participants were randomly allocated 1:1 to the DTx group (DTxG), provided with DTx using EASYBREATH. The DTxG underwent an 8-week PR program with evaluations conducted at baseline, four weeks, and eight weeks. The control group (CG) underwent one PR session and was advised to exercise and undergo the same evaluation. The primary outcome was the change in six-minute walking distance (6MWD) over eight weeks, and secondary outcomes included changes in scores of Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessment test (CAT), and St. George's respiratory questionnaire (SGRQ). RESULTS: = 0.0003) also showed a significant difference between the groups after eight weeks. CONCLUSIONS: EASYBREATH significantly improved exercise capacity, alleviated dyspnea, and enhanced the overall quality of life at eight weeks. EASYBREATH is a highly accessible, time-efficient, and effective treatment option for CRD with high compliance.