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London Asthma Diagnostics Study

The London Asthma Diagnostics Study aims to improve how doctors diagnose asthma in adults. Currently, diagnosing asthma can sometimes be tricky. This study is exploring whether a new type of breathing test, called oscillometry, can make diagnosis more accurate when used with existing tests like spirometry. Researchers will compare these methods to a diagnosis made by specialist lung doctors. The overall goal is to find better and more reliable ways to identify asthma, so people can get the right treatment sooner. There are also optional mini-studies looking at new breath and nasal tests, and asking for your opinions on asthma testing.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Sponsor

Imperial College London

Enrolment target

225

Start

01 Jun 2024

Estimated completion

01 Jul 2026

Asthma

What is this study about?

This study, called the London Asthma Diagnostics Study, focuses on how doctors diagnose asthma in adults. Asthma can sometimes be difficult to diagnose correctly, and getting it right is really important for you to receive the best care.

The main aim of the study is to see if adding a special breathing test, called 'oscillometry,' can help doctors diagnose asthma more accurately. This test works by measuring how air moves in and out of your lungs in a different way to standard tests. Researchers want to know if using oscillometry, along with standard tests like 'spirometry' (another breathing test) and a 'FeNO' test (which measures a gas in your breath), gives a clearer picture of whether someone has asthma.

To find out, they will compare the results of these tests with a final diagnosis made by two expert lung doctors, who will consider all your medical information. There are also optional parts of the study looking at new breath and nose swab tests for asthma, and asking about your thoughts on asthma testing, which could help make future tests better and more patient-friendly.

Key takeaways

The study aims to improve adult asthma diagnosis.
It tests if a breathing test called oscillometry helps diagnose asthma more accurately.
Participation involves an extra breathing test during a clinic visit.
Optional parts include new breath/nose tests and sharing your views.
It helps contribute to better asthma diagnosis for everyone.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over. This includes people who might have asthma for the first time, or those who have been told they have asthma but haven't had it officially confirmed by specific tests.

To join, you must be able to understand the study and agree to take part. It's also important that your GP and any other specialist doctors you see are happy to be informed about your involvement.

There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you've had a chest infection or needed antibiotics/steroids for your chest in the last four weeks. Also, if you have another lung condition called COPD, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are already taking part in another medical trial involving new medicines, you wouldn't be able to participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been referred by your GP for possible new asthma, or do you have an asthma diagnosis that hasn't been fully confirmed?
Have you been free of a chest infection or needed antibiotics/steroids for your chest in the last 4 weeks?
Are you able to understand the study information and agree to take part?
Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you would have an extra breathing test called 'oscillometry' during one of your regular clinic visits for your breathing problems. This would be done alongside the usual tests you might have.

You would also have the option to take part in two smaller, additional studies. One looks at new ways to test your breath and nose for asthma. The other is about sharing your thoughts and feelings on asthma testing and the oscillometry test, which helps researchers understand what patients think. These extra parts are completely optional, so you can choose to do them or not. The study involves attending your scheduled clinic appointment, and any follow-up would be part of your routine care.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may offer the benefit of contributing to our understanding of asthma diagnosis, potentially leading to better and quicker ways to identify the condition for future patients. You might also gain a deeper insight into your own lung function through the additional testing. The risks are minimal, as the tests involved are standard breathing tests. You might feel a little tired from the tests, similar to what you might experience with other lung function tests. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (3)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
Verified postcode
Nottingham, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is oscillometry?

Oscillometry is a type of breathing test that measures how air moves in and out of your lungs, giving doctors more information about your airways.

Will this study change my asthma treatment?

The study itself is about improving diagnosis, not directly changing your treatment. Any decisions about your treatment will still be made by your regular doctor based on your overall health.

Do I have to do all the extra tests?

No, you only have to do the main oscillometry test. The extra tests involving breath and nose samples, and sharing your opinions, are completely optional.

How long will my involvement last?

Your main involvement in the study will happen during one of your scheduled clinic visits. There isn't a long-term commitment directly related to the study beyond that appointment.

Will my GP know I'm in the study?

Yes, if you agree to take part, your GP and any specialist doctors involved in your care will be informed about your participation.

How to find out more

Salman Siddiqui, PhD

s.siddiqui@imperial.ac.uk 07989594095 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.