A Mobile App–Delivered Pulmonary Rehabilitation Model for Chronic Respiratory Disease: Clinical Outcomes from A Prospective Study

Abstract

Background: Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) significantly impair quality of life and functional capacity. While pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is an established treatment, access to traditional programs remains limited. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a digitalized home-based PR program using a mobile application.

Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted on 80 adults with stable CRDs who completed an 8-week digital PR program. The mobile app included educational modules, exercise guidance, and virtual consultations. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included spirometry, the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), and validated clinical scales such as the SGRQ and MMRC.

Results: Post-intervention, participants showed significant improvements in FEV1 (from 41.3% to 50.6%, p=0.0003) and FEV1/FVC ratio (p=0.0106). The mean 6MWT distance increased by 69 meters (p<0.0001). Quality-of-life scores, dyspnoea scales, and CAT scores also improved significantly. No major adverse events were reported.

Conclusion: Digitalized home-based PR is a clinically effective and accessible intervention for improving pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and quality of life in patients with CRDs. It offers a scalable alternative to conventional PR, especially in resource-limited settings.