Using smartphone technology to improve medication adherence in children with sickle cell disease
ADHERE (Applying Directly observed therapy to HydroxyurEa to Realize Effectiveness)
This study is testing a smartphone program that helps kids and teens with sickle cell disease remember to take their hydroxyurea medication by sending reminders and having trained observers check in with them through video, making it easier for them to stick to their treatment and feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emocha Mobile Health, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Owings Mills, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10922865 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving adherence to hydroxyurea treatment in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease (SCD) using a smartphone-based approach called video directly observed therapy (VDOT). Participants will receive reminders, video monitoring by trained observers, and feedback to encourage them to take their medication as prescribed. The study aims to address the common issue of non-adherence, which limits the effectiveness of hydroxyurea in managing SCD. By enhancing engagement and adherence, the research seeks to reduce the burden of SCD complications in young patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents aged 0-20 years diagnosed with sickle cell disease who are prescribed hydroxyurea.
Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with sickle cell disease or those who are not prescribed hydroxyurea will not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve health outcomes for children and adolescents with sickle cell disease by ensuring they adhere to their medication regimen.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar adherence-promoting strategies, although this specific approach using VDOT is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Owings Mills, United States
- Emocha Mobile Health, INC. — Owings Mills, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seiguer, Sebastian — Emocha Mobile Health, INC.
- Study coordinator: Seiguer, Sebastian
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.