Yoga Cystic Fibrosis: An Economic Evaluation

Why is the research needed?

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited condition that causes sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system, leading to lung infections and difficulties with digestion. There is currently no cure, but a range of treatments can help control symptoms, reduce complications, and improve quality of life. People with Cystic fibrosis are also encouraged to undertake regular exercise, as evidence suggests this benefits both physical and mental health.

Yoga has become a popular form of exercise for many individuals, including those with Cystic fibrosis. However, while there is evidence of general physical and mental health benefits, there has been limited evidence specific to people with Cystic fibrosis. Similarly, the economic evidence around the costs and benefits of people with Cystic fibrosis using yoga is minimal.

What are we doing?

We will use data collected in the previous "Yoga - cystic fibrosis" (HEP08) study to conduct an economic evaluation to compare the costs and benefits of people with Cystic fibrosis using yoga.

How are we working with communities, services and organisations?

We will use data from "Yoga - cystic fibrosis" (HEP08)  - which was a large, multicentre national trial drawing together multiple cystic fibrosis treatment centres.

What will the impact and benefits of this research be?

The planned analysis will give an understanding of the cost of delivering the course of yoga, and how this compares to the impact on wider NHS resources/costs, and the impact on quality of life.

What do we have planned for knowledge mobilisation and implementation?

Outputs and findings from this work will be shared alongside the clinical results, with plans for:

• All participants to receive a lay summary of results on study completion and invited to attend a trial results and feedback webinar
• Trial results will be presented at national and international conferences, and local scientific meetings of Imperial College, London and RBH
• Overall results report to be submitted to the general trial funder (Vertex)
• Publication in relevant peer-reviewed scientific journals.