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Chronic breathlessness is a distressing and highly prevalent symptom of advanced chronic respiratory diseases. It is associated with social isolation, high healthcare costs and poor prognosis. Currently, there are few effective drug treatments thus, chronic breathlessness represents a huge unmet need.

Over two days, this conference brings together experts, researchers, people affected by breathlessness, policymakers, the public and healthcare professionals from around the world.

Through engaging presentations and interactive discussions, discover the treatment options for refractory breathlessness, a distressing symptom that affects individuals with various respiratory conditions, as well as the ethical aspects of carrying out an international, multi-centre, randomised controlled trial of a drug for this condition (BETTER-B).

Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect with leading experts in the field. Whether you're a healthcare professional, researcher, policymaker, person affected by breathlessness or simply interested in the topic.

Monday 4 December 2023, 1:30pm-3pm

  • Welcome and overview of the BETTER-B programme, Professor Matthew Maddocks 
  • Ethical aspects of the BETTER-B programme, Professor Bobbie Farsides
  • Use of benzodiazepines in breathlessness management, Dr Sabrina Bajwah 
  • Meditative movement for breathlessness in advanced COPD or cancer, Dr Claire Nolan

Register here 

Monday 11 December 2023, 1:30pm-3pm

  • Welcome and overview of the BETTER-B programme, Professor Irene Higginson 
  • Physicians' experiences of managing breathlessness in palliative care, Professor Malgorzata Krajnik
  • BETTER-B trial processes and delivery, Dr Adejoke Oluyase

Register here 

About the BETTER-B project

Better Treatments for Refractory Breathlessness project (BETTER-B) is an international, multicentre, randomised controlled trial testing the effectiveness of mirtazapine, an established antidepressant, in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and interstitial lung disease. Find out more.

This event is being organised by ARC palliative and end of life care researchers based at the Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy & Rehabilitation, King's College London.