SmartPDT - Smartphone Satellite-Based Self-Care Daylight-Photodynamic Therapy

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Sun-damaged skin in the form of pre-cancerous lesions called Actinic Keratosis (AK), is a very common chronic condition in the UK, which affects around a quarter of people over 60. AK can cause significant discomfort and problems for patients and, if untreated, may transform into life-threatening invasive skin cancer. There is an effective and almost painless treatment for this condition, called daylight Photodynamic Therapy (dPDT). Patient satisfaction with this treatment is high because it takes place in outdoor daylight in any location of the individual's choosing. Despite the positives this treatment is only available to a small number of individuals throughout the UK due to concerns around obtaining enough daylight for the treatment to be effective. This project addresses these limitations and is a collaboration between UK start-up business siHealth Ltd and the Photobiology Unit at Ninewells Hospital. Using Earth Observation satellites and smartphone technology we aim to simplify dPDT for patients and practitioners. We will use the technology to assist with education and real-time monitoring to allow patients to treat themselves, whilst remaining under medical guidance. This project could facilitate wide availability of this invaluable therapy for those with this common chronic disease.