Smart inhaler improves adherence to treatment for children with asthma

Impact: Health and wellbeing

Narrative

Asthma is the commonest childhood disease, affecting around 1 million children in the UK and 100 million worldwide. Treatment is delivered with inhaler devices, but adherence is often poor. Our research at the University of Manchester on sound analysis and gamification has transformed treatment acceptability by developing an inhaler mask with an audible whistle sound to indicate good technique. This whistle sound activates cartoons on a mobile device specifically designed to encourage compliance. The technology has led to a spinout company, Clin-e-cal, and been used by over 100,000 children worldwide. Studies demonstrate it reduces problems in medication delivery.
Impact date2016 → 2020
Category of impactHealth and wellbeing
Impact levelAdoption

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