Last week I got to attend the launch of REACH a database where people with asthma or people affected by asthma can register and join. Once you have joined REACH you will hear about studies which you may be able to participate in and help asthma research and the development of new treatments for asthma and to help researchers better understand asthma.
Sign up to REACH here!!!
There is a huge shortage of participants for research studies for all conditions but the number of people suffering with asthma is growing but the developments in asthma medication isn’t keeping up with the number of people with asthma but also the number of different phenotypes of asthma which all require different treatment regimes. By having a database specifically for those with asthma or affected by asthma will give researchers a place to find people who are interested in taking part in research and who are applicable to their study.
4-5 years ago I was never really aware of how to get involved in research specifically in clinical trials or being a participant rather than being involved in the research process. I always assumed it was if your Dr was interested in research then they would put you forward for research studies but otherwise I had no real awareness of how to become a participant and I am sure I am not the only one who felt like this. I would be more than willing to be a participant if it was not only going to potentially benefit my own health but the health of others with asthma as well.
The launch party up at the BioQuarter in Edinburgh was great and joined by a number of researchers, PPI volunteers and other members of AUKCAR. The cake to mark the launch of REACH was great too!!!
If you know someone who may be interested in signing up to REACH please send them the link http://www.aukcar.ac.uk/reach They may also want to get involved in research as a patient and public involvement volunteer with AUKCAR, more information can be found on the AUKCAR website.
ANONYMOUS-ASTHMA 