Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease that affects millions worldwide, impacting daily life in profound ways. But what if we could better measure the most burdensome challenges experienced by patients using cutting-edge digital health technologies?
A recent Merck KGaA study in collaboration with VivoSense, published in the Journal of Patient-Reported Outcomes, explores how digital clinical measures (DCMs) can advance how we assess and manage SLE. Researchers conducted focus groups to gather insight directly from patients living with lupus and identify the aspects of life that are most burdensome and can be assessed with digital health technologies.
Bridging the Gap Between Patient Experience and Digital Measurement
This study takes a patient-first approach, uncovering key meaningful aspects of health (MAHs) that impact daily life, including:
- – Fatigue & Energy Levels – How SLE affects movement and endurance.
- – Daily Activity Limitations – The struggle to complete routine tasks.
- – Sleep Quality – The toll of poor, unrestful sleep.
These experiences were mapped to measurable digital outcomes and researchers pinpointed wrist-worn wearable sensors as the preferred solution to derive these measures with real-time, continuous monitoring. This opens the door for more personalized, data-driven treatment plans.
Why This Matters for the Future of Lupus Care
- – Objective, Real-World Data: Move beyond subjective intermittent assessments to capture how SLE truly impacts daily life.
- – Patient-Centric Innovation: Leverage digital tools that align with what matters most to patients.
- – Smarter Clinical Trials & Treatments: Use real-world insights to drive better, more targeted interventions.
With digital health advancing at a rapid pace, this study marks a major step toward transforming lupus care—empowering both patients and researchers with data that truly reflects lived experiences.
Read the full study and discover how digital clinical measures are shaping the future of lupus careJen Blankenship, PhD
Jen Blankenship, PhD, is a clinical and translational scientist with a deep interest in wearable technology (e.g., continuous glucose monitors and accelerometers).
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