Volunteers needed - Australian researchers trialling new asthma treatment

Researchers at The University of Queensland, Princess Alexandra Hospital and The Prince Charles Hospital in association with the Asthma Foundation of Queensland, are collaborating in a national study which could identify a new treatment for people with ongoing asthma symptoms.

They are looking for people:

• Over the age of 18
• Non-smokers (ex smokers may be eligible)
• Have asthma symptoms despite taking preventer medication

Participation will involve taking macrolide antibiotic medication or a placebo medication, in addition to their current asthma medication, and visiting the clinic at the hospitals for breathing tests.

For more information about participating in this program, phone the AMAZES clinical team on (07) 3240 7922 at the Princess Alexandra Hospital or (07) 3139 4627 at The Prince Charles Hospital.

This study is funded by a National Health and Medical Research Council grant to the University of Newcastle and collaborating partners in this study including The University of Queensland. The study is not associated in any way with a pharmaceutical company.

Media opportunity:
Professor John Upham, Associate Professor Ian Yang and a community member with asthma are available for interview and vision at the Asthma Foundation of Queensland’s World Asthma Day Forum between 12.30pm-1.30pm on 4 May, 2010.

Media contact Mark Brooke, CEO Asthma Foundation of Queensland on
(07) 3252 7677 or m.brooke@asthmaqld.org.au