They're breathing easier due to F&P Healthcare these days

Michael Daniell expects his company's new system will help a broad range of patients.

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare has developed a new humidification system that could "significantly" lift demand for the medical equipment-maker's technology.

It said the new respiratory humidification system was designed to help a broad range of patients beyond the traditional intensive care market.

These included people with severe respiratory illness such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, with conditions such as xerostomia (dry mouth) and cystic fibrosis.

The new system has been introduced in New Zealand, Australia and Britain. A release in other markets is expected next year.

Chief executive Michael Daniell said the new technology was likely to "become an increasingly significant contributor to our growth". New breathing devices released last year boosted Fisher & Paykel Healthcare's half-year profits to a record high of $28.1 million, up from $25.2 million in the six months to September the year earlier.

He forecast full-year revenue of between $227 million and $234 million, up from $214.8 million last year.

The company specialises in making respiratory humidification systems, devices for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and neonatal and warming products.

These are sold in more than 90 countries worldwide.

Shares in the company closed down 5c yesterday at $2.84, having ranged between $2.42 and $3.38 in the past year.