The use of wearable sensing and intelligent data analysis algorithms for respiratory function management assumes particular relevance, offering several potential and substantial clinical benefits. It allows for the early detection of respiratory exacerbations in patients with chronic respiratory diseases, allowing earlier and, therefore, more effective treatment.

As such, presently, the problem of continuous, non-invasive, remote and real-time monitoring of such patients is deserving increasing attention from the scientific community. Wearable and portable systems with sensing technology and automated analysis of respiratory sounds and pulmonary images are some of the problems that are the subject of current research efforts. Such systems have the potential for substantial clinical benefits, promoting the so-called P4 medicine (personalised, participative, predictive and preventive).