Nutrition research fuelling better outcomes for patients with lung disease
TPCH Senior Dietitian Cameron French is exploring whether targeted nutritional interventions improve outcomes for patients undergoing antifibrotic therapy.
Dietitians at The Prince Charles Hospital (TPCH) are exploring whether targeted nutritional interventions improve outcomes for patients undergoing antifibrotic therapy.
For many patients living with Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), particularly Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), daily life is shaped by breathlessness, fatigue and uncertainty.
(ILD) is a group of more than 200 chronic disorders causing inflammation or scarring (fibrosis) of the lung tissue, making it difficult to breathe and transfer oxygen to the bloodstream. Lung damage from fibrosis cannot be reversed.
While antifibrotic therapies have improved disease management, they can also bring significant side effects – often affecting appetite, weight and overall nutritional status.
Through a New Investigator Grant from The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation, Senior Dietitian Cameron French is exploring whether targeted nutritional interventions improve outcomes for patients undergoing antifibrotic therapy.
Mr French has been working with The Prince Charles Lung Transplant team for more than five years and seen firsthand the impact of ILD and IPF. This includes the challenges faced by patients who experience significant medication related side effects from antifibrotic treatment.
“These experiences have highlighted the complex relationship between disease, treatment, nutrition and the need for greater focus on supportive care alongside medical therapy,” Mr French said.
“This work sits at the intersection of respiratory care and clinical nutrition, recognising that treatment success is not only about slowing disease progression, but also about supporting the whole patient journey.
“Many individuals with ILD and IPF are at risk of malnutrition due to increased energy demands, reduced intake and medication related side effects.
“There is emerging evidence showing the importance of early nutrition interventions for patients on antifibrotic therapy.
“The ultimate goal is to help reduce symptom burden during treatment, support patients to remain on their medications for longer and ultimately improve quality of life.”
Importantly, the study also reflects a growing recognition of the role of multidisciplinary care in chronic disease management.
Mr French is hopeful his research will further embed nutrition into the ILD and care pathway to support clinicians and empower patients with strategies to better support their condition.