The University of Newcastle, Australia

Hunter researchers are calling for volunteers to participate in a world-first study investigating whether weight loss improves asthma in children and adolescents.

Airway inflammation is a characteristic of asthma and can make breathing more difficult. Researchers from the University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) believe it is possible being overweight or obese may contribute to airway inflammation.

Researchers are seeking volunteers aged 10 to 17 years who have medically diagnosed asthma, and who may have a weight problem, to take part in a 10 week nutrition program.

Participants and their families will have weekly contact with an Accredited Practising Dietitian, who will work with them to improve food choices and lose weight.

Participants will also undergo breathing and blood tests, and have their body composition measured, at the beginning and end of the study. Information collected will be used to determine lung function, asthma status, and the level of airways inflammation over the course of the study.

For further information, or to register interest in participating in the study, please contact Megan Jensen.

All discussions will be confidential.