Measurement and Impact of Physical Impairment in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Use of Digital Technologies - A Precision ALS Project

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF DUBLIN, TRINITY COLLEGE · Feb 5, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on improving how we measure physical abilities in people living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a rare and progressive disease that affects movement and speech. The study aims to test new digital tools, like smartphone apps and devices, that can measure things like walking, speech, and strength from the comfort of home. By comparing these new technologies with traditional methods, the researchers hope to better understand how physical function changes over time in ALS patients and make it easier for individuals to participate in future clinical trials.

To take part in this study, participants must be at least 18 years old, have a confirmed diagnosis of ALS, and be comfortable using a smartphone or tablet. They should also have a stable internet connection. During the trial, which lasts about 12 months, participants will have three in-person assessments at a research clinic or their home, and they will use digital tools for weekly assessments in between. The goal is to gather valuable information that could help develop better treatments for ALS in the future while making participation more convenient for patients.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosis of ALS made by a Neurologist; possible, lab-supported probable, probable or definite as per the revised El Escorial Criteria.
• • Enrolled in the Precision ALS prospective study.
• • Ability to understand participation requirements and provide informed consent to undergo assessments and for data to be used.
• • Willingness to use a smartphone or tablet and to download and use study apps.
• • Age \>18 years
• • Home access to a stable broadband internet connection and willingness to use this for data collection.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosis of a neurological disease other than ALS, active dementia or psychiatric illness that would limit ability to follow the assessment schedule of the study.
• • Other medical condition that would compromise the patient's safety or limit their participation in this study.