David participated in the INCOGNITO trial which is a partnership between Professor Dominick Shaw at Nottingham City Hospital and Professor James Chalmers at the University of Dundee, Scotland.
What was the purpose of this trial?
The trial compared two different inhalers that are both licensed for treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and monitored each participant for 6 months.
Hi David. To begin with, can you begin by telling us about your experience with COPD?
I was diagnosed 6 years ago. I knew nothing about it until I went to City hospital and was the only time I knew about COPD and every time I come back I learn more! [laughs]
Ok. Can you tell us how you were diagnosed?
I had a bad stomach for several months and my GP made me go to have an X-ray.
And did the doctors at the hospital make the diagnosis?
No. The GP told me it could be asbestos exposure but City hospital got in touch with me and asked if I’d be interested in taking part in a COPD trial – it was the first time I knew about COPD. I told them I didn’t have it but they assured me that I have. My GP never said anything about COPD.
Do you remember anything about that trial?
It was a young lady, Helen, who ran the study and did kickboxing. I had lots of various tests.
What sort of impact has COPD had on your day-to-day life?
I get tired very quickly. I’m exhausted at the end of each day and I struggle lifting heavy loads. But it did help me to stop smoking though. I was still smoking when I was diagnosed but I was referred by my GP [to a smoking cessation service]. I was told about it by Helen.
And how did you hear about our unit and research in general?
You wrote to me and asked if I’d be interested.
Have you been involved in research previously?
Yes, this is the third one. It helps both ways – I learn things and if you know what’s happening and you don’t stress out so much. If you know what’s going off you can accept it.
What made you want to take part in the INCOGNITO trial?
I wouldn’t have volunteered had I not been approached. You get adverts on TV asking for participants for big pharmaceuticals but I wouldn’t know about research at hospitals without you guys.
Would you participate in research again?
Yes, definitely.
Any advice for any people wanting to take part in research in the future?
Don’t hesitate, just do it.
Have you enjoyed any particular aspects?
It’s good. It’s good information for me.
Anything else you’d like to add before we wrap up?
No, it’s been quite enjoyable and no stress.