Patients wanted for global medical study

Tauranga researchers are seeking patients aged 40 and over with chronic bronchitis or emphysema for a worldwide study.

People who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) - also known as "chronic bronchitis," "smoker's cough" or emphysema - are being encouraged to participate in a worldwide study that will test a potential new treatment for the condition.

Researchers at P3 Research Tauranga and Tauranga Hospital are joining forces with colleagues around the world to determine whether a potential new treatment can reduce the frequency of COPD symptoms, keep participants out of hospital and help them better cope with their day-to-day life.

Patients are being sought who:
- Are aged 40+
- Have COPD, chronic bronchitis, smoker's cough, or emphysema and are taking regular medication for the condition
- Had some worsening in the last 12 months of COPD symptoms that required additional treatment or hospital admission

COPD has a substantial impact on the health of New Zealanders. Although often undiagnosed, it affects an estimated 15 per cent of the adult population over the age of 45 years, or at least 200 000 New Zealanders.

Tauranga Hospital respiratory expert Dr Neil Graham welcomed the study and said he hoped New Zealand patients would take the opportunity to participate.

"There is no cure for COPD which is why it is so important to keep researching new treatment options. We need treatments that do an effective job in reducing symptoms, keep people out of hospital and improve their quality of life," he said.

"Participating in a research study can also be beneficial for the participants as they receive high quality medical monitoring and regular health checks at no cost. The patients could do some good for themselves while also helping progress New Zealand research into new medicines."

Participation in the study is voluntary and information is kept strictly confidential. This study has been approved by Human Research Ethics Committees to be conducted at various New Zealand centres.

For further information about COPD and upcoming clinical trials you can call 0800 827 840 or visit www.gsk.co.nz/COPD