More than 176,000 people in the UK are living with a stoma, according to NHS data
Coloplast has announced the launch of its world-first digital leakage notification system, Heylo, to benefit patients living with a stoma.
The new system is now available through the NHS to help alleviate the physical and mental burden of leakage in patients living with a stoma, following an individual consultation and assessment of leakage anxiety.
According to NHS data, more than 176,000 people in the UK are living with a stoma, an opening on the abdomen that can be connected to either the digestive or urinary system to remove waste from the body.
The most common conditions that can result in stoma surgery include colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and accidental injury.
For most patients, leakage of a stoma is currently the biggest challenge, with 92% of people worrying about leakage, impacting both their physical and mental well-being, while 54% are unable to sleep, 37% feel like they are not in control and 30% are limited in their work.
The new system aims to tackle these challenges facing stoma patients by allowing users to track potential leakages, reducing anxiety and helping patients feel reassured, comfortable and in control.
Used under most ostomy baseplates, Heylo works via a sensor layer that connects via Bluetooth to the user’s smartphone and an app. After attaching the device under the stoma, users can discreetly open the app and check the leakage status.
Research has already shown that Heylo can reduce leakage incidents onto clothes by up to 82%, improving quality of life for patients.
In addition, these alerts help to prevent skin problems for stoma patients, as well as reduce the need for avoidable medical appointments and the burden on healthcare professionals.
Coloplast’s head of marketing: Heylo, Adrian Summerson, commented: “We understand that life with a stoma is not always easy. With the launch of Heylo in the UK… we are aiming to provide both an innovative solution and reassurance to the people who need it most.”

https://pharmatimes.com/news/coloplast-launches-digital-leakage-notification-system-heylo-for-stoma-patients/