IN a groundbreaking initiative to tackle the pressing issue of drug-related deaths, the UK Government has launched a £12 million funding programme to support innovative research projects across the country, with a particular focus on Scotland.
The Addiction Healthcare Goals programme, run by the Office for Life Sciences, aims to harness cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality (VR), wearable devices, and artificial intelligence (AI) to save lives and improve outcomes for individuals struggling with drug addiction.
Scotland has the highest drug death rate in Europe, and is at the forefront of this initiative with several promising projects.
One is LifeSavr, developed by NOMW Health in collaboration with Greater Glasgow and Clyde Innovation Hub and the University of Southampton. This wearable device is designed to address the opioid overdose crisis by monitoring vital signs such as oxygen saturation, heart rate, body movements, and respiratory rate to accurately detect overdoses.
Another notable project is the “Saving Sam” wristband, a joint effort between the University of Edinburgh and NHS Fife. This innovative device monitors vital signs and sends alerts to trusted contacts if an overdose is suspected.
The University of Glasgow is also contributing to the initiative with a soft sensor designed for seamless body integration, providing real-time respiratory monitoring to identify early signs of overdose episodes.
The programme also explores the potential of AI and virtual reality in addiction treatment. One project aims to help individuals overcome cocaine addiction triggers using watch-like devices to measure environmental cues that lead to drug cravings. This data is then used to create realistic VR scenarios, allowing users to safely expose themselves to triggers and practice refusal techniques.
Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak, Chief Scientific Advisor for Health at the Scottish Government, emphasized the importance of these initiatives. She said: “Tackling drug-related deaths is a priority for the Scottish Government and NHS Scotland, and we are committed to tackling these issues through targeted research, innovation and support.”
Science Minister Lord Vallance highlighted the power of collaboration in delivering life-saving treatments. He commented:
“The UK’s life sciences sector plays a critical role in finding new ways to tackle the biggest challenges facing healthcare, including the devastating impact of addiction. The Addiction Healthcare Goals Programme is testament to our commitment to bringing together researchers, clinicians, and innovators to create real change.”
“From wearable technology to AI-powered tools, these innovative projects highlight the power of collaboration in delivering life-saving treatments. By investing in these partnerships, we are tackling addiction head-on and ensuring that cutting-edge science reaches those who need it most, improving public health across the UK.”
