Popular Science: A $25 whistle-like tool could be a game changer for COPD patients
The PEP Buddy is cheap, uses no electronics, and could help regulate breathing for COPD sufferers
One in 10 adults suffer from the debilitating effects of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Research around a new breathing device developed by pulmonologists at the University of Cincinnati offers promise for improving their lives.
The new device not only improves symptoms of breathlessness and quality of life for people with COPD, it also offers benefits for people dealing with stress and anxiety and those practicing mindfulness, meditation or yoga.The research was published in the journal Respiratory Care and covered in an article published by Popular Science.
The outlet reported that a team at the University of Cincinnati has created a new positive-expiratory pressure (PEP) device roughly the size and shape of whistle that attaches to a lanyard for users to keep on them during their everyday activities. Unlike existing PEP products that are often handheld, bulky, and expensive, Muhammad Ahsan Zafar and Ralph Panos’ PEP Buddy aid only costs around $25, and includes no electronics. Zafar, MD, and Panos, MD, are both in the Department of Pulmonary Critical Care and Sleep Medicine at the UC College of Medicine.
Muhammad Ahsan Zafar, MD, and Ralph Panos, MD, both of the Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine in the UC College of Medicine/Photo/Andrew Higley/UC Marketing + Brand
The article goes on to say because of their respiratory system degradation and weaker air tubes, it often takes COPD sufferers longer to exhale while breathing. When their breath quickens, such as during physical activities or while stressed, more and more air stays within the lungs, causing “dynamic hyperinflation” that leads to breathlessness and lower oxygen levels. This compounds over time, and often restricts or discourages further physical movement and exertion, which then can worsen existing COPD symptoms.
To combat these problems, users put the device in their mouth just as they would a whistle when needed, then breathe through their nose and exhale through the product. PEP Buddy’s design simply relies on creating a slight back pressure while users breathe out, thus slowing down their exhalations to better regulate air flow. In their studies, Zafar and Panos found that around 72% of patients utilizing PEP Buddy over a two-week period reported a “significant impact” in reducing shortness of breath while also improving their everyday living. What’s more, over a third of those participating in the study showed no signs of dropping oxygen levels while PEP Buddy was in use.
Next Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is classified as a Research 1 institution by the Carnegie Commission and is ranked in the National Science Foundation's Top-35 public research universities. UC's graduate students and faculty investigate problems and innovate solutions with real-world impact. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
UC co-op helps build career pathways at AtriCure
July 28, 2026
AtriCure, a global medical device company in Mason, Ohio, is UC’s largest biomedical engineering co-op employer, turning University of Cincinnati co-op students into full-time innovators.
Four outstanding preceptors recognized for shaping the next generation of nurses
July 28, 2026
Every nursing student’s journey includes a mentor who helps transform theory into practice. In hospitals, clinics, and community settings, preceptors provide hands-on guidance that helps students build confidence, refine clinical judgment, and develop the skills needed to care for patients independently. Each year, the University of Cincinnati College of Nursing recognizes outstanding clinical educators through its Outstanding Preceptor Awards. Nominated by the students they mentor, the awards honor two prelicensure preceptors and two advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) preceptors — one from the Greater Cincinnati region and one from outside the region —whose commitment to teaching has made an extraordinary impact on student learning and professional development.
CCM Hollywood alumna reminisces on her Cincinnati roots over Skyline
July 28, 2026
Hollywood actress Diana Maria Riva recently sat down with the Cincinnati Enquirer to discuss her career over a Cincinnati staple — Skyline chili. The CCM Acting alumna has worked in Hollywood since the '90s, but she grew up on Cincinnati's West Side.