Thousands of lives could be saved through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and wearable technology designed to reduce drug deaths and improve outcomes.
The government has awarded £12 million to projects across the UK that are researching innovative wearable technology to support people with drug addictions.
One of the chosen projects, PneumoWave ALERT, pairs a chest-worn sensor that monitors breathing with a mobile device that sends an immediate alert to nearby antidote carriers and emergency services if an overdose is detected.
This helps people get potentially life-saving treatment as soon as possible.
Another study will look at using virtual reality to help people overcome their triggers for cocaine addiction. People will be assessed using watch-like devices to determine which cues in their environment lead to a drug craving by measuring physical changes to the body.
How wearable technology can reduce drug cravings
Virtual reality will then be used to create realistic situations to repeatedly expose people to triggers in a safe environment.
Previous research shows cue exposure treatment (CET) can significantly reduce the level of craving and relapse among alcoholics, but it has not yet been fully explored for people experiencing a cocaine addiction until now.
Minister for Public Health and Prevention Andrew Gwynne said: “Drug addiction devastates lives and rips apart families, and this government is committed to gripping this problem.
“We’re determined to harness the full potential of cutting-edge technology to save thousands of lives across the country. I want the UK to lead the way in championing innovation to end the harmful effects of addiction.”
Saving lives with accessibility to naloxone
The funding will also support research to improve the accessibility of the life-saving drug naloxone.
Naloxone rapidly reverses heroin and opioid overdose but is typically available as an injection or nasal spray, which has limitations and cannot always be used in time.
Kings College London is looking into naloxone wafers, which melt in the mouth, provide rapid access to this emergency medicine and can fit easily in a wallet or purse.
Several of the projects are based in Scotland, which has the highest rate of drug deaths in Europe.
These include a wristband to monitor vital signs such as blood oxygen levels, heart rate and body temperature. If an overdose is suspected, the device, named ‘Saving Sam’, will send out an alert to a trusted contact.
Growing innovative treatments and technologies
If successful, the wearable technology being researched could be rolled out to more sites across the UK. The projects support the government’s Health Mission—building an NHS fit for the future—by helping to embed a greater focus on prevention and support services.
It also helps establish the UK as a global leader in innovative treatments and technologies, supporting the UK’s Growth Mission—for sustained economic growth, good jobs, and increased productivity across the country—by inspiring healthcare companies to invest in the UK and helping people return to stable work.
