Inspiratory training for children with asthma and obesity

Mechanistic Study of Inspiratory Training in Childhood Asthma (MICA)

Not applicable Interventional Duke University · NCT05945355

This study is testing if breathing exercises can help children with asthma, especially those who are also dealing with obesity, breathe better and manage their asthma symptoms over 8 weeks.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment76 (estimated)
Ages6 Years to 17 Years
SexAll
SponsorDuke University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Durham, North Carolina and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05945355 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of inspiratory training on respiratory function in children aged 6 to 17 with moderate to severe asthma, focusing on those with and without obesity. It includes a cross-sectional analysis of respiratory mechanics followed by a randomized, SHAM-controlled trial where participants will undergo inspiratory training at varying intensities over 8 weeks. The study aims to understand how inspiratory muscle dysfunction and small airway dysfunction contribute to asthma severity in obese versus non-obese children. Participants will be evaluated for changes in respiratory function and asthma control throughout the study.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 6 to 17 with moderate to severe asthma, either with obesity or a normal BMI.

Not a fit: Patients with very poor asthma control or significant respiratory impairment may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved asthma management and quality of life for children with obesity-related asthma.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with inspiratory training in asthma management, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 6-17 years of age
* Documented clinician-diagnosed asthma
* Currently requiring 2 or more controller prescriptions to treat disease (i.e. moderate to severe persistent disease)
* Either obese (≥95th percentile BMI and less than 170% of the 95th CDC percentile) or have a normal BMI (BMI 5th to 84th CDC percentile)

Exclusion Criteria:

* ACT (asthma control test) score \<17
* Ever intubated for asthma
* FEV1 \< 50% of predicted at enrollment
* Currently pregnant
* Legal guardian unable to consent in English or Spanish
* Any major chronic illness that, in the opinion of the PI, would interfere with participation
* Younger than 6 years of age

Where this trial is running

Durham, North Carolina and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Asthma in ChildrenObesityPediatric ObesityPediatric Asthma
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.