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Lung disease patients needed

Staff ReporterStirling Times

The GLISTEN COPD Study involves more than 100 GP and specialist investigators across 54 sites nation-wide, 15 of which are located in Western Australia.

The trial is designed to examine a new medication for COPD, with the disease affecting about 50,000 Western Australians.

According to medical director of the Lung Institute of WA, Professor Phillip Thompson, the trial will investigate improvements in quality of life through medication available to those living with the debilitating and progressive disease.

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‘COPD is a life-threatening lung disease that causes severe shortness of breath and persistent coughing,’ he said.

‘COPD is a major cause of death in Australia, ranking sixth among the common causes of death in Australian men and women. Unfortunately, the disease, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is significantly under-diagnosed and under-treated.’

Bayswater resident and COPD sufferer Barry (70) said the trial fitted into his daily routine.

‘I get along really well with the study coordinators and they are flexible, if I forget to log my phone diary, I receive a courtesy reminder call,’ he said.

‘I’ve also found the study to be very informative, I didn’t expect to learn so much about COPD.

‘I can rely on the nurse coordinator’s and doctor’s expertise to answer any of my questions about the disease, and to learn more about how it affects me.’

Over a 12-week period, participants will be required to routinely visit their registered GP or specialist site, complete a phone-in patient diary twice-a-day and perform routine spirometry tests, a quick painless breath test to diagnose COPD.

All patient COPD treatment and travel expenses will be covered for the duration of the trial.

Volunteers must be over 40, living with emphysema, chronic bronchitis or COPD and current or former smokers.

Registration for the trial is available by calling 1800 300 392, and callers will be screened and offered further tests to confirm their eligibility for the trial.