We are thrilled to share the exciting news about the ongoing strides in lung health research right here in Saskatchewan, made possible through your support. In 2018, Lung Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF) entered a partnership to fund lung health research in Saskatchewan, committing to investing one million dollars over five years. In that time, spanning from 2018 to 2023, 15 projects have been successfully funded in various areas of lung health research, including lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), vaccines, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IDF), sleep apnea, lung transplant, air quality, smoking and vaping.
Our partnership with SHRF empowers us to address the most relevant, timely, and crucial respiratory issues in Saskatchewan. By joining forces, this partnership doubles the impact of Saskatchewan donors, ensuring that we can tackle the most pressing questions affecting lung health in our province. As a result, we are delighted to announce the renewal of this partnership, as both organizations have committed to another five-year, one-million-dollar investment in lung health research in Saskatchewan. This partnership aligns with the shared priorities and vision of both organizations, aiming to increase investment in cutting-edge Saskatchewan lung health research. Your continued generosity empowers us to make a tangible difference in the lives of Saskatchewan residents.
“Collaborating with partners like Lung Saskatchewan helps SHRF invest in timely
and relevant health research that can have a true impact on Saskatchewan people
and the health challenges we face as a province.’’
– Patrick Odnokon, Chief Executive Officer, SHRF
By supporting Lung Saskatchewan, you directly contribute to the impactful lung health research conducted by researchers like Dr. Josh Lawson in Saskatchewan. Every dollar invested helps improve lung health, one breath at a time.
Erin Kuan
President & CEO, Lung Saskatchewan
Funding for Asthma and Sleep Apnea Research
Meet Dr. Josh Lawson, a Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon. He is a recipient of the Solutions grant and Align grant, collaborative initiatives between Lung Saskatchewan and SHRF. The Align grant supports Dr. Lawson’s research on childhood asthma and mental health, bringing together a diverse team to explore the link between childhood asthma and mental health, considering the impact of geographic location on this association. Asthma and mental health conditions are prevalent in childhood, affecting healthcare utilization, costs, daily activities, and overall quality of life.
Additionally, Dr. Lawson, in collaboration with Dr. Donna Goodridge, has received a Solutions grant to investigate a virtual behaviour change intervention for women with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in rural Saskatchewan. Focused on weight management, physical activity, stress, sleep hygiene, and muscle function therapy, this project aims to enhance the quality of life for those living with OSA.
The funding opportunities I’ve received from SHRF and Lung Saskatchewan have been remarkable. Beyond financial support, Lung Saskatchewan’s encouragement, participation in teams and educational events have been very helpful.
Recent funding, like the Align grant received in May 2023, has been instrumental, focusing on childhood asthma and comorbidity with mental health conditions. This has facilitated team building, background research, and collaboration with experts. The Align grant has propelled our research in three areas: a scoping review of childhood asthma and mental health conditions, a scan of clinical and research activities in the province, and the formation of a diverse team comprising patients, researchers, and clinicians.
Research makes a difference in asthma. Research has identified at-risk groups, triggered interventions, and shaped medications and management strategies. While prevention is challenging due to asthma’s multifactorial nature, research has played a crucial role in understanding and addressing the disease.
The OSA project is a distinct project funded by the Solutions grant, focusing on rural women. The project incorporates virtual behaviour change activities related to health behaviours and exercise, and we are currently in the data collection phase. Collaborating with researchers like Dr. Donna Goodridge enhances the interdisciplinary approach. The collaborative nature of research in our province allows for meaningful partnerships with various experts, creating a rich and diverse research environment.
Thank you for supporting lung health in Saskatchewan.
Dr. Josh Lawson
Researcher