Do you have chronic breathing troubles or know of someone who does?

Are you interested in finding better ways of managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD (also known as emphysema or chronic bronchitis)?

University of Queensland Division of Therapy researchers are currently looking for individuals with COPD who may be interested in participating in a study, investigating whether a Self Management approach is as effective as Pulmonary Rehabilitation or usual medical care for individuals with COPD. You do not have to have a formal diagnosis to take part.

Involvement would include:

• Initial visit to the University of Queensland (St Lucia campus); 
• Placement into the Pulmonary Rehabilitation (eight weeks) or Self Management group (six weeks); 
• Three month visit to the University of Queensland (St Lucia campus); 
• Surveys at six, nine, and 12 months to complete in your own home.

The programs are available at locations across Brisbane. Alternately, participants can choose to take part in their usual care groups so would not have to attend a program but would still be assisting research.

(Source: University of Queensland: April 2009)