Type of Project: Funded project Model project
ITT-COPD – Development and testing of an innovative individualized training therapy as part of rehabilitation and follow-up care in case of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a phenotypically very widespread disease with a very variable clinical presentation. Due to pathologically altered breathing mechanics and muscle loss caused by a lack of exercise, it can lead to severe impairments in private and professional participation. Added psychological barriers and fears reduce productivity. Due to the latent lack of oxygen and the pathologically altered breathing mechanics with limited ventilation, the respiratory muscles are often weakened. The perceived shortness of breath is often due to respiratory mechanical impairments. Although taking medication their effectiveness is limited. This means that the medication can no longer compensate for the loss of lung function. The project aims to break the further deconditioning of the respiratory muscles with the help of individualized and everyday exercises. Follow-up care is also important for long-term behavior change. Follow-up care with a focus on COPD is only available in a few regions of Germany - for this reason the project aims to develop individualized digital aftercare.