Lung Health Research Grants | Breathe PA

Lung Health Research Grants

Funding Research That Supports Our Mission

Breathe PA provides grant funding for research projects that support our mission to help western Pennsylvanians breathe better and live healthier.

We issue annual request for proposals (RFPs) for the purpose of conducting research leading to improved care and outcomes for patients with lung disease. Projects are funded at or between $10,000 and $50,000.

Funding is made available to individuals, groups, and institutions committed to improving health outcomes for individuals with lung and respiratory disease. We invite you to review the Request for Proposal issued each March. Funding announcements will be made at the end of June. 

For more information, including how to apply for a Lung Health Research Grant, please contact Casey Monroe, Executive Director at cmonroe@breathepa.org.

Headshot of Dr. Tariq Cheema

2024-2025 Grantee

Evaluating the Efficacy of AVAPS versus BiPAP in Managing COPD Exacerbations

Author: Tariq Cheema, MD, FCCP, MMM

Abstract: This project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Average Volume Assured Pressure Support (AVAPS) versus Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) in managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) exacerbations. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a significant global health issue, with high morbidity, healthcare utilization, and associated costs. Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) strategies like AVAPS and BiPAP have shown promise in reducing mortality, intubation rates, hospital stay durations, and complications. This study will prospectively compare these modalities in a real-world setting to determine their impact on patient-reported outcomes, adherence rates, hospital readmission rates, and gas exchange metrics. The research will involve a comprehensive multidisciplinary team and a detailed methodology incorporating randomization, monitoring, and evaluation of key metrics. The expected outcomes include identifying the most effective NIV device for managing and preventing COPD exacerbations, thereby enhancing patient care and outcomes. This study’s findings could significantly influence clinical practice, offering evidence-based guidance on the optimal NIV strategy, improving patient outcomes, and reducing healthcare costs.

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