A feasibility study to explore predictors of dysphagia in COPD
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A feasibility study to explore predictors of dysphagia in people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
IRAS ID
194454
Contact name
Simon P Grobler
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z6364106/2016/01/11, UCL Data Protection Registration Number
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 2 days
Research summary
The study aims to identify the predictors for dysphagia (swallowing problems) in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This has not been attempted before so a feasibility study is proposed to establish the most appropriate predictors and measures of dysphagia, the number of eligible participants and methods of recruitment, and the sample size required for a main study.
A significant proportion of people with COPD are known to experience dysphagia, which can cause ingestion of food and fluids to the lungs (aspiration). This impacts on health and quality of life. However, dysphagia in people with COPD often goes undetected due to the conflicting nature of cough and respiratory health, in that people with COPD will frequently cough and suffer fluctuations in chest status irrespective of eating and drinking difficulties.
This feasibility study will explore predictive factors for dysphagia in COPD on initial assessment in order to inform knowledge of the condition and identify those people who would benefit from specialist intervention for swallowing difficulties.
The primary aim of the study is to determine which factors predict the development of dysphagia in people with COPD. The secondary aims are establishing the sensitivity of available clinical assessments, the number of eligible participants, appropriate recruitment methods and the sample size required for a main study.
The study will adopt a cross-sectional design and recruit 50 participants with COPD from a specific COPD service. Participants will be assessed in one one-hour session, using a range of clinical assessments that capture different aspects of dysphagia, including direct observation of eating and drinking and completing a swallow-related quality of life questionnaire. The assessments will be conducted at a community hospital or at home. The results will be entered into a statistical model with relevant risk factors to identify significant predictors of dysphagia in COPD on initial assessment.
REC name
London - Fulham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/0317
Date of REC Opinion
29 Mar 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion