Drugmaker Biogen Idec gave out 250 Fitbit bands to multiple sclerosis patients in the US this year to “track their level of activity and sleep patterns.” Biogen, which has five MS drugs on the market, says collecting data on a daily basis – particularly mobility – could lead to developing better treatments to those suffering from the autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord.
Biogen is also working on an app with MS doctors at the Cleveland Clinic. It will gauge cognitive function and vision using tests that resemble video games to assess a patient’s vision. According to Mashable, “Cognitive function and vision typically aren’t regularly checked by doctors during patient visits.” Testing of the app will start in the spring at the Cleveland Clinic.
