Prospective Cohort Study of Chronic Cough in the Canadian Longitudinal Study of Ageing (CLSA)

Chronic cough is a common symptom affecting approximately 10% of the general population that has major social, psychological and physical implications including depression, anxiety, and a reduction in social participation. Current data suggests the prevalence of chronic cough increases with age and is twice as common in female than in males. The exact reasons for this are unknown and there is no licensed treatment for this condition. There are some conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease which may be associated with chronic cough, but often treatment of these conditions with inhalers still leaves patients very symptomatic with cough. Therefore, there is an unmet need to better understand this condition. Unfortunately, there is no data evaluating the prevalence, incidence, characteristics, risk factors, and health consequences of the condition in the Canadian population and hence the CLSA provides a perfect opportunity to gain a better understanding of this condition. This information will be valuable in working towards better identification and treatment of chronic cough.

Faculty Supervisor:

Imran Satia;Paul O'Byrne

Student:

Partner:

Merck Canada Inc (Kirkland, QC)

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

McMaster University

Program: