Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a major global health challenge, affecting over 384 million people [1] and carrying a large economic burden [2]. Effective pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), particularly physical exercise in combination with continuous vital signs monitoring, can slow disease progression and enhance quality of life. Yet, access to rehabilitation remains limited due to cost, prescription challenges, and long waiting times.

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Approaching COPD Management with AI

cosinuss° leverages its expertise in remote patient monitoring (RPM) and advanced data science to bridge this gap and develop a potential solution as part of the ESCORT project, to which all clinical and technical project partners contribute their expertise. With experience gained in RPM-studies and projects such as TELECOVID, CO-SI-ONKO, and RAPID_REVIVE [3] (a drug intervention study, clinical phase 2), cosinuss° is developing the hardware technology and AI-enabled software solutions that could potentially help COPD patients to monitor their vital parameters. 

 

The system is user-friendly: patients simply place the in-ear sensor, which automatically connects to the corresponding mobile app. The sensor continuously measures critical health metrics for COPD management, including oxygen saturation (SpO₂), heart rate, and core body temperature. Further parameters, such as heart rate variability, respiration rate, and physical activity (e.g. steps, distance, and head movements) could also be measured and displayed.

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Real-time data is transmitted to the app on the patient’s mobile device, providing instant visualization during physical activity. Alerts notify users if vital signs exceed safe thresholds, and could offer immediate guidance for corrective actions. After each session, the app could evaluate performance, adjust training plans, and motivate users with progress insights.

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All collected data could be securely uploaded to a server, enabling pulmonologists and therapists to analyze trends, tailor treatments, and make data-driven care decisions. Additionally, the AI component could identify long-term patterns, offering early warnings of potential health deteriorations to both patients and healthcare providers. With the assistance of AI models it will be possible to adjust training plans to optimally support and motivate the patient. The training can be designed so that it is helping with the chronic condition and can be stopped in good time if the oxygen usage is too high. AI models will also enable patients to prevent exacerbations by early warning and thus immensely improve the quality of life.

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Transformative Benefits for COPD Patients

The cosinuss° RPM solution could enable  COPD patients to engage in physical rehabilitation with increased safety and autonomy. The AI-driven system would ensure personalized, adaptable care plans that respond dynamically to the patient’s condition. This approach not only would improve quality of life but also enhance clinical decision-making by providing precise, real-time data.

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For rural or underserved areas where traditional healthcare resources are limited, this technology will offer a lifeline, bridging the gap in access to care.

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Beyond COPD: Broader Applications of AI-Enabled Monitoring

While designed with COPD in mind, the cosinuss° RPM solution is versatile. The combination of sensor technology and AI-driven analysis can be adapted to monitor and manage other chronic conditions, including diabetes and heart failure, offering tailored solutions to meet diverse patient needs.

By integrating cutting-edge technology into chronic disease management, cosinuss° is redefining the potential of remote healthcare, providing both patients and clinicians with tools to navigate complex health challenges more effectively.