A Novel Photo-electrochemical Oxidation Air-Purification Technology Reduces Asthma Symptoms

RATIONALE: Photo-electrochemical oxidation (PECO) is a novel air purification technology developed to reduce circulating air pollutants. In addition to physical filtration, a photo-electrochemical reaction takes place on the surface of a nano-coated filter leading to the oxidation of organic matter. PECO can destroy particulate matter as small as 0.1nm that would otherwise not trapped by a HEPA filter. We hypothesized that with daily use, the portable PECO device would reduce asthma symptoms after 4 weeks of use.

METHODS: The study was performed among 18 individuals with self-reported asthma symptoms. Asthma symptoms were recorded on a 0 (minimum)-4 (maximum) point scale at baseline and at 4 weeks with elements including daily puffs of inhaler, sleep quality, interference with daily activities and control of asthma as per the ATAQ scale.

RESULTS: 16/18 individuals (89%) provided all survey data at baseline and at 4 weeks. There was a statistically significant change in asthma symptoms from baseline to those seen at four weeks (2.06 at baseline and 0.75 post intervention) resulting in a mean difference of 1.31(95% CI 0.45 to 2.18; p=0.006).

CONCLUSIONS: With the use of PECO air purification technology, self reported asthma scores decreased significantly. Future studies with increased patient numbers and objective asthma endpoints are planned to confirm these findings.