Novartis has launched a new 'quantified self' platform to help multiple sclerosis (MS) patients more easily record, track and analyse their personal data.  

The pharma company collaborated with personalised analytics firm TicTrac on the 7-Day Challenge, which integrates data from sources such as wearable technology and social media.  

The idea behind the platform, the 'quantified self' movement, is that by tracking things like activity levels and sleep patterns people can gain valuable personal insights that may help improve their lives.  

The popularity of the quantified self has been growing in recent years, driven by new wearable trackers like FitBit and Jawbone, not to mention a plethora of mobile apps. Continued growth seems assured too with recent health tracking releases from Apple and Google.  

Few pharma companies have explored the area to date, though Novartis' new platform - which made its official debut at the end of May – coincided with the release by Johnson & Johnson of its Track Your Health iPhone app. That app, which produces a personal health report for users, is part of the digital health coaching services provided by J&J's Wellness & Prevention unit.  

Novartis' new platform appears to go a few steps further, incorporating a wide variety of digital tools calendars, social media channels and fitness trackers, even allowing data from Spotify and email applications to be pulled in if users desire.  

David Epstein, division head of Novartis Pharmaceuticals, said: "We recognise the value of providing access to personalised information for the MS community.  

“As part of our commitment to providing innovative solutions that go beyond treatments, we are delighted to announce the launch of the 7-Day Challenge to Live Like You, which will empower the MS community to gain valuable insights about themselves and their MS."  

Use of the 7-Day Challenge to Live Like You online tracking programme isn't limited to just one week - seven days was chosen as a manageable amount of time to a new routinue - and it is supported by Novartis' recently-launched Living Like You online magazine-style website for the MS community.

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