American Lung Association Launches National Research Study to Explore New Approach for Reducing COPD Flares

The American Lung Association today announced the launch of the COPD-OMA trial, a national clinical research effort conducted through its Airways Clinical Research Centers (ACRC). The study will examine whether the medication omalizumab, which is already FDA-approved for asthma and allergic diseases, can help reduce flare-ups in people living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who are sensitized and exposed to common indoor allergens in their homes. The study is funded by the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).

COPD flare-ups, or exacerbations, often lead to emergency room visits, hospitalizations and long-term declines in lung function. The COPD-OMA Study will evaluate whether adding omalizumab to standard COPD treatment can lessen these flare-ups and improve overall quality of life for this subset of COPD patients.

“COPD remains a leading cause of death and disability in the United States, and many people with COPD continue to experience dangerous and disruptive flare-ups despite current treatments,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “Through this important research, we aim to determine whether an existing, proven medication could offer new hope for people living with COPD and allergies. This study has the potential to significantly improve quality of life for millions of people.”

The Airways Clinical Research Centers network, the nation’s largest nonprofit network of clinical research centers focused on lung disease, is recruiting participants at clinical sites across the United States.

Individuals interested can learn more here or call 1‑800‑LUNGUSA for more information.

The national study is supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the National Institutes of Health under award number R01GM987654, and by Genentech.