A PATIENT at Torbay Hospital who has suffered years of recurring chest infections says she can finally see ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ after joining an international clinical trial investigating a new treatment for bronchiectasis.

Jeanette Glynn began taking part in the AIRTIVITY trial in March and has experienced just one flare-up since starting, marking her longest period without infections in two years.

The trial is investigating a targeted anti-inflammatory medication designed to improve symptoms and quality of life for people living with bronchiectasis, a long-term respiratory condition that causes the airways in the lungs to widen and produce excess mucus.

Three patients have been recruited to the study at Torbay Hospital, part of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, matching recruitment numbers at much larger specialist centres.

Bronchiectasis can cause repeated chest infections and flare-ups, often requiring antibiotics and other treatments.

Until recently, medication has largely focused on easing symptoms and reducing complications, rather than directly targeting the condition itself.

New treatments have only recently been developed, and none are yet in regular use in the UK.

Jeanette said she had experienced breathing problems throughout her life but had previously managed them with the right information and medication.

However, in recent years, she suffered several serious infections that led to repeated visits to doctors and hospital.

Her treatment included antibiotics, steroids and intravenous medication.

During a follow-up respiratory appointment, she was approached by Dr Ben Diggins and respiratory nurse specialist Bianca Hulance, who asked whether she wanted to better understand why she kept becoming ill.

They explained that a clinical trial could offer an opportunity to help manage her condition.

After undergoing initial tests, Jeanette joined the study.

She said: ‘Having access to the trial has been a game-changer and I hope this is going to be me for the rest of my days.

‘I feel like there’s light at the end of the tunnel now which I couldn’t see before’.

Dr Louise Anning, principal investigator at the trust, said there had been significant international interest in the new medication, with recruitment to the trial finishing a year ahead of schedule.

She said: ‘I am so proud to be part of the Torbay team who worked really hard to make sure our patients had the opportunity to be part of this important study’.

The trial is expected to last two years in total, with another year of research ahead and the option for patients to extend their treatment.

Dr Diggins and Ms Hulance, who are supporting the study, have also been awarded research associateships by the regional research delivery network (RRDN) to increase their focus on research at the trust.

The findings are expected to help inform future patient care and could contribute to new treatment options for people living with bronchiectasis.