National cohort of children with respiratory issues in Switzerland

Swiss Paediatric Airway Cohort

Observational University of Bern · NCT03505216

This study looks at children in Switzerland with breathing problems to see how these issues affect their health and treatment over time.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment6000 (estimated)
Ages0 Years to 16 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Bern Academic / other
Locations12 sites (Vienna and 11 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03505216 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

The Swiss Paediatric Airway Cohort (SPAC) is a prospective observational cohort that collects data from children and adolescents in Switzerland who experience recurrent wheeze, cough, and exercise- or sleep-related respiratory problems. It aims to investigate clinical phenotypes, prognosis, diagnosis, and treatment of these conditions through comprehensive baseline assessments and ongoing follow-up via questionnaires. The study includes 4344 patients from 10 clinics across Switzerland, utilizing real-life data to enhance understanding of respiratory issues in pediatric populations. Participation involves routine clinical care without additional tests specifically for the study.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children and adolescents aged 0-16 years who are residents of Switzerland and have been referred to a pediatric outpatient clinic for respiratory symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients with prior diagnoses of cystic fibrosis, primary ciliary dyskinesia, severe heart disease, oncological disease, neuromuscular disease, or severe disability may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide valuable insights into the management and treatment of common respiratory problems in children.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have successfully utilized cohort approaches to investigate pediatric respiratory conditions, making this a well-supported methodology.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children and adolescents aged 0-16 years
* Resident in Switzerland
* Seen in a paediatric pulmonary outpatient clinic due to respiratory problems
* Parents and patients above age 14 must be able to sign an informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

Prior diagnosis of cystic fibrosis, primary ciliary dyskinesia, severe heart disease, oncological disease, neuromuscular disease or severe disability

Where this trial is running

Vienna and 11 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 AsthmaWheezingCoughExercise Induced BronchospasmInspiratory Laryngeal ObstructionDysfunctional Breathing
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.