Can Text Messages Help Boost Asthma Outcomes?

Asthma patients who are given electronic asthma plans have better health outcomes, according to a new pilot study published this month.

Researchers from the University of British Columbia wanted to find out whether an electronic asthma action plan (eAAP) would outperform paper plans in such a way that would translate into improved asthma control and health outcomes.

The team constructed a pilot study with 106 patients, half of whom were given paper AAPs, and half of whom were given eAAPs. Each of the patients included in the study reported having at least 1 asthma exacerbation within the previous 12 months.

Those on the electronic plan received a weekly text message asking them to assess their asthma control, and to engage with their action plan. After 1 year, the eAAP cohort had lower incidences of asthma exacerbations, with a 0.82% risk ratio compared to those on the paper plan.

For the full article, visitMdMag.com.