Investigating the effect of IMT in children and adults with CF
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating the influence of an Inspiratory Muscle Training program on lung function and quality of life in children and adults with Cystic Fibrosis.
IRAS ID
205356
Contact name
Melitta McNarry
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
REIS
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 3 months, 27 days
Research summary
Cystic Fibrosis is the most common autosomal recessive disease, effecting approximately 10,583 people in the United Kingdom (Cystic Fibrosis Registry, 2014). It shortens life and significantly decreases quality of life in those who suffer from it. The CF mutation causes a build-up of thick, vicious mucous to clog the respiratory and digestive system. Primarily lung function is significantly decreased as this build-up of thick mucus in the lungs causes obstructions, impaired breathing, and destruction of the airways. Consequently, approximately ~90% of patients diagnosed with CF will die as a result of respiratory failure unless surgical transplant procedures are performed (Davies et al, 2014). It can be hypothesised, that the mechanical disadvantage CF patients suffer may reduce inspiratory function which would therefore increase the risk of respiratory fatigue. The respiratory muscles play an important role in maintaining lung health in CF patients, with respiratory muscle strength being vital for airway clearance and contributing to exercise function. Inspiratory muscle training, which involves breathing through a device that provides resistance when you breathe, aims to improve the strength of the lung muscles by making them work harder and therefore making them stronger. Preliminary research has shown encouraging results in IMT, not only in regards to inspiratory muscle strength, but also quality of life. However, methodological inadequacies have tempered the interpretation of early studies. In the past 30 years’ life expectancy in Cystic Fibrosis has increased significantly, however as age progresses lung function declines. Therefore, it is essential to determine IMT’s effectiveness in progression from childhood to adulthood. For this new generation of ageing patients, improving lung function and enhancing quality of life is a new challenge for a CF clinical care team, therefore, this potential non-pharmacological intervention warrants further investigation.
REC name
North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/NW/0764
Date of REC Opinion
15 Dec 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion