A Research Study For EmphysemaSufferers (NAPSA)—A new study may help many of the 4 million Americans living with emphysema. The chronic condition makes breathing extremely difficult and, despite the availability of inhaled emphysema medications, many patients treated with the drugs still have their lives disrupted by the disease. Such was the case for Russell Fisher, a Washington resident who has lived with emphysema for the last 25 years. “Tt is as though someoneelse is in control of the air and they are only giving you enough to sur- vive,” he says. Fisher, like many patients, is not responsive to inhaled emphysema medications. Also like many other patients, he is not eligible for or not interested in surgery that might treat the disease. Medical treatments include bronchodilators, which relax the muscles around the airways, and oxygen therapy, which helps some patients absorb oxygen. The remaining options are surgical and only a small group of patients are eligible for these treatments. “There is a significant unmet need for minimally invasive approaches for patients with emphysema,” explained Daniel Nader, DO, FCCP,clinical assis- tant professor of internal medicine and director of the Oklahoma State University Center for Respiratory Medicine in Tulsa, Okla. “The inhaled therapies only offer a small amountof benefit and surgical treatments are only avail- Facts About Emphysema The condition effects 4 million Americans. The disease is offen caused by exposure to toxic chemicals, including long-term exposure fo tobacco smoke. e Signs of emphysemainclude pursedlipped breathing, a blue coloration of the skin ond finger clubbing. Emphysema can betreated with certain medications, oxygen and, in some (Ose surgery. able to a select few who meet very stringent inclusion criteria.” Research Needed Emphysema researchers are focusing on responding to the need for new treatments by investigating novel medical devices for people with emphysema. A research study of one of these investigational treatment options is currently underwayat hospitals around the U.S. The study is evaluating a bronchial valve designed to redirect airflow from diseased portions of the lung to healthier areas. “The ability to breathe easily is something most people take for granted. I am hopeful that this treatment may offer a new option for my patients with emphysema,” said Dr. Nader. People ages 40 to 74 with emphysema mostly in the upper lobes of the lungs may be eligible for enrollment at one of the up to 50 sites participating in the study. More information about the trial can be found at Emphysema Trial.com or at 1-877-54-STUDY.
