funhaler available by the end of the month

Funhaler being shipped out as we speak.. RE: AGH news released at 1:31pm.

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Also media release that can be read on vsg's homepage..
this is 3 weeks old but is the first time i've seen it so i felt i would post it here..

Media statement
April 5, 2005

Researchers at the Telethon Institute for Child Health Research have launched a new clinical study to test the effectiveness of a Perth invention that promises to improve asthma treatment in young children.

The Funhaler is a radically new design of spacer for young asthmatics which rewards them with sound effects and spinning objects when they take their preventative medication correctly.

With strong international interest in the device, the United States’ National Institute of Health is funding the trial to measure the clinical benefits of the Funhaler.

Principal Investigator Professor Peter Sly said the Funhaler is the first asthma device developed specifically for preschool children .

“Every parent who has a young child with asthma knows the challenge of getting them to take their puffer medication correctly,” Professor Sly said.

“The Funhaler appears to act as an incentive for children to develop a good breathing technique that will ensure they get maximum benefit from their medication.

“What we want to do is firmly establish what difference a device like this makes to a child’s asthma.”

Professor Sly said 160 asthmatic children aged between 2 and 6 years were needed for the trial. Some will be given the Funhalers while others will act as a control group. All children will have their asthma carefully monitored.

“If this device is really effective, then it has enormous potential to improve the control of asthma and prevent hospitalizations,” Professor Sly said.

As many as 20 per cent of children in Australia are diagnosed with asthma. It is the leading cause of child admissions to hospital.

To volunteer for the trial or to find out more information, parents can contact 9340 8452.

Ends
Media contact Elizabeth Chester
Telethon Institute for Child Health Research
0409 988 530 (mobile)