Innovative technologies for asthma and COPD management in the community: scanning the horizon using rapid systematic review methods

The study is a rapid systematic review and horizon scan that mapped current and emerging technologies designed to help people with asthma or COPD monitor and manage their conditions outside traditional healthcare settings in England.

The authors reviewed systematic reviews (2020–2023) and conducted horizon scanning across medical databases, trial registries, company websites, and app stores. Eligible tools had to be portable, enable self-monitoring or early exacerbation detection, and incorporate AI or remote monitoring features.

Findings: They identified 53 technologies—18 digital solutions, 22 physical devices, and 13 prognostic tools. Of these, 22 were CE-marked and already available. Portable spirometers linked with digital apps stood out as especially promising for easing NHS workload and improving year-round care. Some tools may also serve broader patient groups than originally intended.

Conclusion: Innovative, portable, AI-enabled solutions could significantly improve out-of-clinic asthma and COPD care, helping reduce system pressures while supporting patient self-management.