A recently-launched augmented reality (AR) game application for asthma training enhances inhaler training technique precision. MySpira, a metered-dose inhaler training application works with augmented reality technology released by Apple (AR Kit) and Google (AR Core).
Orbital Media has been the application in partnership with the University of Suffolk through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership. It has received partial funding in the Arts & Humanities Research Council and Innovate UK. The university has contributed in terms of research, development, guidance and graduate placement.
Based on the findings of a recent study conducted on 96 children aged between 6 and 13, the MySpira application signified a constant information recall rise, as compared to conventional inhaler education methods like videos or leaflets. The application produced a score that was 70 percent higher than leaflets and 26 percent higher than videos.
Dr. Simon Rudland, a Stowhealth partner and MySpira medical mentor, spoke in detail regarding asthma and the research findings. He said that whilst asthma is a deadly condition, it can be managed effectively to keep sufferers free from symptoms. According to him, children should be taught to get a grip on their asthma from an early age. The primary results of this research have proven to be exceptionally encouraging, enhancing both the aspects of compliance and procedure. It signifies better long-term health, and could sharply reduce the volume of nationwide emergency cases, resulting in lesser hospitalisations. Rudland revealed the intention of integrating the MySpira app into the current asthma support facilities of the medical service.
According to the findings of several studies, up to 93 percent of asthma patients do not use their inhalers correctly. This may result in lower than 5 percent of the medication reaching into the lungs. The number of emergency admissions has reduced by 50 percent and asthma-related deaths have been reduced by 75 percent, in places with precision training programmes. The 2014 National Review of Asthma Deaths established that up to two-thirds of asthma deaths can be prevented with superior management.
Karyn McBride, an asthma nurse, and MySpira medical adviser expressed that proper inhaler technique dynamically reduces asthma attack risks. She stressed that improper technique led to patients getting lesser than their prescribed medicine doses. McBride highlighted some of the common inhaler use mistakes including not shaking an inhaler canister enough, abruptly fast or too slow inhalation, and inhaling at improper angles. According to McBride, a practical need for more modern asthma education should be standardised to help patients get a grip over their asthma.
MySpira adds upon the current educational materials for asthma care, by introducing friendly characters and touch-based interactions that appeal to children. Any child participating in the 20-minute long experience gets to learn about asthma triggers, keywords, inhalation variations, inhaler and spacer preparation, and the appropriate technique.
Peter Brady, CEO, Orbital Media, revealed some asthma facts, stating that the condition affects 5.4 million people annually in the UK, among which 1.1 million are children. He stressed that the AR-based MySpira game can prove quite effective in teaching children how to reduce impacts of asthma.
