Survey participants wanted to shape new diagnostics for patients with cystic fibrosis
Opportunity to ensure that new diagnostics for lung infections are aligned with the needs of people living with cystic fibrosis.
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited, chronic and progressive condition accounting for 10,000 hospital admissions each year in the UK. People with CF experience flare-ups when symptoms suddenly worsen. These flare-ups are caused by a build-up of sticky mucus in the lungs and digestive system. This can lead to frequent lung infections and intestinal problems.
In collaboration with the CF AMR Syndicate, comprising of LifeArc, Medicines Discovery Catapult, and the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, we have examined the current practice for diagnosing infections and flare-ups in people living with CF. Using a combination of interviews and focus groups, we have gathered the views of people with CF, their representatives and family, and healthcare professionals.
Through this work, we have identified unmet needs and produced a guidance document outlining the ideal characteristics of new diagnostics to address these challenges. We hope that these blueprints, known as Target Product Profiles (TPPs), will help to drive the development of new improved diagnostics. They will be a resource for the community, providing areas of focus for industry and highlighting key priorities for investment.
We invite clinicians, academics, diagnostics developers and people living with CF to read the guidance document by clicking on the link below:
You can then complete a survey to provide your insights on the document by following this link: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/28Y6YNV