Imaging Measures of Respiratory Health Registry
This study is like a health register for lungs, using special MRI scans to gather information on healthy people and those with breathing conditions. Researchers want to collect detailed pictures and information about how lungs work, including how air moves in and out and the tiny structures inside. This will help them understand lung diseases better. They are also hoping to develop new ways to look at these MRI scans. The information gathered, along with basic personal details and standard lung tests, will be stored. Other researchers from around the world can ask to use this information to help further medical understanding and eventually improve care for people with lung conditions.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is setting up a health register, a bit like a secure digital library, specifically for information about your lungs. They're using a special type of scan called an MRI, which uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures inside your body. The exciting part is they're using advanced MRI techniques that can show not just the structure of your lungs, but also how well air moves around and how effectively oxygen gets into your blood.
The main goal is to collect as much of this detailed lung information as possible from a wide range of people – both those who are healthy and those who have a lung condition. By comparing these two groups, researchers hope to get a much clearer picture of what makes lungs healthy and what goes wrong in various lung diseases. This knowledge is crucial for developing better ways to diagnose and treat these conditions in the future.
Not only will this data help current research, but the project also aims to inspire new ways to look at these MRI images. Imagine scientists developing brand new computer programs to spot tiny changes in lung health that we can't see yet. All this information, along with some basic health details and standard breathing test results, will be stored safely and made available to other approved doctors and scientists who want to contribute to this important area of medical research.
Key takeaways
- This study uses special MRI scans of the lungs.
- It collects information from healthy people and those with lung conditions.
- The aim is to improve understanding of lung health and disease.
- It could help develop new ways to analyse lung scans in the future.
- Participation involves one visit for scans and tests.
- Your data will help advance medical research for everyone.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for people of all ages, from babies to 99-year-olds, who have been diagnosed with a lung disease by their doctor, or people who are generally healthy. For everyone, it's important that you, or your parent or legal guardian if you're a child, are happy to give your permission to take part.
To be included, the research team needs to think you'll be able to follow simple instructions during the MRI scan to help them get good quality pictures. This is important because the special lung scans require you to hold your breath or breathe in a specific way at certain times.
There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you already need extra oxygen to breathe comfortably, or if an MRI scan isn't safe for you (like if you have certain metal implants). If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you get very anxious in small spaces (claustrophobia), you also wouldn't be able to take part in this particular study.
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 between 0 and 99 years old?
- Do you have a lung condition diagnosed by a doctor, or are you generally healthy?
- Are you able to follow simple breathing instructions during a scan?
- Are you comfortable with MRI scans (no claustrophobia)?
- Are you NOT currently pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Do you NOT need extra oxygen to breathe comfortably?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you would come for a visit where you'd have an MRI scan of your lungs. This scan involves lying still in the scanner and following some breathing instructions. You might also have some standard breathing tests, which involve breathing into a machine. The team will also collect some basic information about your health and medical history. This is a one-time visit, and there are no medications involved or follow-up appointments after that. The total time commitment for you would be one appointment for the scans and tests.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- British Columbia Children's HospitalVerified postcodeVancouver, Canada· Recruiting
- St. Paul's HospitalVerified postcodeVancouver, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is an MRI scan?
An MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures inside your body without using X-rays.
Will I get any results from my scan?
The focus of this study is to collect information for research, so you won't personally receive a report on your scan results.
Is my personal information kept private?
Yes, all your personal and health information will be stored securely and kept confidential, in line with strict data protection rules.
Do I have to do anything special before the scan?
You will be given full instructions before your appointment, which usually includes things like removing metal jewellery.
Can children take part?
Yes, children of any age can take part, as long as a parent or legal guardian gives their permission and they can follow instructions for the scan.
How to find out more
Rodrigo Sandoval, MSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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