Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a leading cause of death and decreased quality of life, particularly among individuals living in rural areas. This project will test a home-based, technology-supported respiratory muscle training program designed to reduce shortness of breath and improve daily functioning and quality of life in adults with COPD. Findings from this research will support development of scalable approaches to improve respiratory health for individuals with COPD living in rural communities.

The goal of this study to test whether a 12-week home-based program delivered over the internet to people who have COPD and live in rural parts of the country can improve their health and overall quality of life. In this study, we will enroll 306 volunteers with COPD. The study is sponsored by a grant receive from the NIH National Institute of Nursing Research.