Reflux and quality of life in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Measuring patient perceptions of antireflux therapy in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a health-state utility analysis
IRAS ID
149045
Contact name
Rhys Jones
Contact email
Research summary
Antireflux therapy in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis – what do patients think?
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive, scarring lung condition. The causation is poorly understood and the only proven treatment is lung transplantation, for which few patients are eligible. The average survival is 3-5 years from the time of diagnosis.
In preliminary studies IPF is associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), the abnormal passage of stomach contents into the gullet. GORD may result in harmful aspiration of material from the gut into the lungs. The fact that GORD can occur without symptoms in IPF makes it difficult to detect.
Standard treatment of GORD consists of tablets to suppress acid production in the stomach. In pulmonary fibrosis, non-acid reflux may also be injurious, limiting the benefit of acid suppression. More definitive treatment may be achieved with surgery to tighten the valve between the oesophagus and the stomach. Given that IPF is mainly diagnosed in older people, such surgery would carry significant risks.
For these reasons the diagnosis and treatment of GORD in IPF is challenging, both from the clinical and research perspectives. As we learn more about the impact of GORD in IPF, it is crucial that patient attitudes are accounted for in both clinical decisions and in the design of future studies.
The aim of the current study is to explore patient attitudes towards antireflux therapy in the context of IPF.
We will use a well-validated “standard gamble” technique to measure health state preferences relating to IPF and antireflux therapy. The work will be conducted in a group of patients with IPF, identified from specialist outpatient clinics in Newcastle and Gateshead. Participation will entail a single interview lasting up to thirty minutes.
The work is funded through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership between Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals.
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/0531
Date of REC Opinion
18 Mar 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion