The University of the Sunshine Coast has begun trialling a three in one inhaler to target better lung and heart health outcomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Researchers at UniSC Clinical Trials’ clinic at Birtinya are testing the three in one inhaler to determine if it provides better outcomes for respiratory and cardiovascular health compared to current therapies.
Principal investigator Dr Alessandra Francesconi said COPD was a progressive and currently incurable disease.
“COPD is a group of lung conditions, including emphysema, and chronic bronchitis, which cause narrowing of the bronchial tubes and make breathing difficult,” Dr Francesconi said.
“According to the World Health Organization, COPD is the third leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for 3.2 million deaths in 2019.
Clinical trial coordinator Lindley Mattiazzi said study participants would receive either the investigational triple therapy or the double therapy treatment, each administered via an inhaler, twice a day.
“We are seeking current or former moderate to heavy smokers, aged 40 to 80 with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to join the study,” Ms Mattiazzi said.
Trial participants will be asked to attend one visit about every three months for the first year, followed by one visit every six months for two years at the UniSC Clinical Trials Birtinya clinic.
Participants will be reimbursed for their time and travel.
All trial related treatment is of no cost to the participants.
Those interested in participating can find more information at www.usc.edu.au/trials or call 07 5409 8640.
