|
Assoc Prof Michael Abramson
Prof Marc Cohen
Assoc Prof David Johns
Funded by: Alfred Research Trusts
Asthma Victoria (Parker Grant)
As asthma is so common, there are numerous patients who are seeking treatment for asthma. It has been argued that the
Buteyko Breathing Technique (BBT) is one such treatment. However to date only two randomised controlled trials have
been conducted; one of these in our Department (Opat et al 2000). These past trials have left unanswered questions that
this study attempts to answer. This trial expands on work already completed by us that demonstrates an improvement in
quality of life and reduced reliever medication use after learning the BBT from an instructional video. This study furthers our understanding of the BBT in the management of asthma and how it works. When completed, this trial will be the most thorough examination of the BBT to date. We will report our results in both medical journals and the mass media.
Furthermore if the BBT works, we will have identified a technique that will benefit asthma sufferers. If the BBT does not work, then there would be (for the first time) a sound basis for its rejection. This trial therefore furthers the aims of Asthma Victoria as it may improve our understanding and extend the appropriate management of asthma.
The trial has now been completed and the data are currently being analysed.
Publications:
Opat AJ, Cohen MM, Bailey M, Abramson MJ. A clinical trial of the Buteyko breathing technique in asthma as taught by a video. J.Asthma 2000;37(7):557-64
|
