What is the study about?

It is known that there are several areas of the UK where overuse of SABA and asthma exacerbation rates are particularly high. Many of these contain communities with relatively high numbers of economically disadvantaged people and minority ethnic groups who we know are underrepresented in asthma research.

Research suggests ethnicity and migration have both substantial and independent effects on the incidence of asthma [1]. Moreover, it is documented that there are much poorer asthma outcomes in UK among South Asian and Afro-Caribbean communities. This is particularly the case among children of migrants who are seen to be at increased risk of developing asthma when compared to UK-born Whites [30]. Similarly, a more recent article [2] reports poorer incidence of asthma control and increased exacerbation rates among those from the most deprived areas.

The magnitude of socioeconomic disparities is also shown to be higher among older patients and those from ethnic minority groups [1, 2]. Understanding the driver of this disparity requires further exploration. In order to address this, the current study has been designed to increase recruitment of participants from these groups. Therefore, alongside the main trial we have further included a SWAT to determine whether an animated video in 4 key languages as well as English improves recruitment. The SWAT is a cluster randomised study which will investigate the effects of this intervention to improve both overall recruitment and inclusivity in the main trial.

We have worked with colleagues and PPI groups at the Centre for Ethnic Health Research at Leicester University to create an animated video about the trial that will be dubbed into 4 key languages (Bengali, Urdu, Gujarati and Polish) as well as in English. This will be provided alongside the main participant information sheet and an infographic. The intervention may improve understanding of all participants, not just those in ethnic minority groups, we will therefore include all participants rather than the sub-set from ethnic communities in the SWAT.

Who can take part in the study?

Participants of the Relief trial

What is being tested in the study?

To determine whether the use of an animated video about the RELIEF trial dubbed into four key languages (Bengali, Urdu, Gujarati and Polish) alongside enhanced pictorial information improves recruitment and inclusivity of minority ethnic groups.

Funder

National Institute for Health and Care Research - Health Technology Assessment (NIHR - HTA)

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