University of Newcastle and HMRI researchers are leading a major new study aimed at reducing the harmful overuse of oral corticosteroid tablets in people with asthma through more personalised treatment approaches.
The Minimising Oral Corticosteroid Use in Asthma using Treatable Traits (TTOCS) Study is investigating whether identifying and targeting specific risk factors unique to each person can reduce dependence on oral corticosteroids while maintaining good asthma control.
University of Newcastle Professor Vanessa McDonald from HMRI’s Asthma and Breathing Program and the NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Treatable Traits is leading the multi-site study in collaboration with Asthma Australia.
“Many people with asthma rely on oral corticosteroid tablets when their symptoms worsen, but frequent use can have significant impacts on quality of life, including weight gain, mood changes, sleep disturbance, and even increased risk of diabetes or osteoporosis,” said Professor McDonald. “This study is about helping people breathe easier without the burden of those long-term side effects.”
The research comes as Asthma Australia and the Centre of Excellence in Treatable Traits launch their cobranded “Smarter Oral Steroids” campaign aimed at optimising the use of medications like prednisone.
While these medications are life-saving during acute asthma attacks and essential for some people to maintain daily asthma control, they’re associated with serious adverse effects across multiple body systems.
Research shows approximately 25 percent of people with asthma have been exposed to cumulative doses of oral corticosteroids above levels known to cause significant side effects, including diabetes, renal impairment, obesity, cataracts, mood disorders, cardiovascular disease and decreased bone density leading to fractures.
The TTOCS Study takes a novel approach by focusing on what researchers call “Treatable Traits” specific characteristics that can be targeted to improve asthma management without relying heavily on steroid tablets.
The study is being conducted across multiple Australian sites, including John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle and Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Perth. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either standard enhanced asthma care or a new model based on their individual treatable traits.
Clinical Research Officer Brooke Bailey from the University of Newcastle and NHMRC Centre of Research Excellence in Treatable Traits says they’re seeking participants from specific regions.
“We’re calling on adults from within the Hunter New England and Central Coast areas living with asthma to consider participating in this important research,” said Bailey. “Together, we can pave the way to more personalised asthma care.”
To be eligible, participants must be adults with asthma who have used oral corticosteroid tablets in the past two years. All participants will receive close support through face-to-face and phone consultations over a 12-month period.
The researchers are also hosting a community information session titled “Optimising Asthma” on 22 May at the Hunter Medical Research Institute, which will also be available via livestream for those unable to attend in person.
Professor McDonald believes the study could fundamentally change how asthma is managed in Australia.
“By identifying each person’s unique traits and targeting treatments accordingly, we hope to reduce unnecessary oral steroid use while improving overall asthma control and quality of life,” she said. “This approach could transform asthma care by moving away from one-size-fits-all treatments toward truly personalised medicine.”
Anyone interested in participating in the TTOCS Study can visit the Treatable Traits website to learn more about eligibility requirements and how to enrol.
The study represents a significant shift in asthma management philosophy, focusing on precision medicine approaches that could benefit thousands of Australians living with the condition while reducing the significant health burden associated with long-term steroid use.
HMRI would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live, the Awabakal and Worimi peoples, and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage and beliefs and their continued connection to their land.
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