Using air purifiers to improve lung health in patients with eosinophilic COPD
Official title: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Home Air Purification for Eosinophilic COPD
Funded at Harvard School of Public Health · NIH-11258337 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether using special air purifiers can help people with eosinophilic COPD breathe better and feel less discomfort, by comparing the effects of these purifiers to a fake device over a year.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard School of Public Health NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2020 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $754,541 |
| NIH project number | 7R01ES031252-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11258337 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old diagnosed with eosinophilic COPD who experience symptoms exacerbated by air pollution and allergens.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-eosinophilic COPD or those who do not have significant exposure to air pollution or allergens may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates whether using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifiers can improve lung function and reduce respiratory symptoms in patients with eosinophilic chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study involves a one-year randomized controlled trial where participants will use either a HEPA air purifier or a sham device, allowing researchers to compare the effects on airway inflammation and overall respiratory health. By focusing on the impact of reducing air pollution and allergens in the home environment, the research aims to provide insights into non-pharmacological interventions for managing eosinophilic COPD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved management strategies for eosinophilic COPD, potentially enhancing patients' quality of life and lung function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that HEPA filters can improve symptoms in allergic asthma, suggesting potential for success in this novel application for eosinophilic COPD.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard School of Public Health
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rice, Mary B — Harvard School of Public Health
- Study coordinator: Rice, Mary B
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.