This study is testing a device called PEP Buddy for Veterans with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). PEP Buddy is a small, portable device worn around the neck that may help control shortness of breath. You would be randomly assigned to receive either the actual PEP Buddy or a "sham" device that looks the same but only provides the breathing support of standard pursed-lip breathing. Researchers want to see if PEP Buddy helps improve symptoms and exercise ability faster during and after pulmonary rehabilitation. To join, you need to be a Veteran with COPD, aged 40-89, able to exercise on 4 liters per minute of oxygen, and have an FEV1 (a measure of lung function) less than 80% of what's expected. The study aims to enroll 120 participants and will measure improvements in shortness of breath and daily steps over 12 months.

Study design

This is a randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled study involving 120 participants. You would be randomly assigned to receive either the PEP Buddy device or a sham device, and neither you nor the study staff would know which one you received.

What's involved

You would participate in pulmonary rehabilitation and use the assigned device. Your shortness of breath and daily steps would be measured over 12 months.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

Your shortness of breath and daily steps will be measured for 12 months.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.