NCT05297279 · Johns Hopkins University
OMEGA - Dietary Intervention - COPD Trial
What this study is about
A randomly assigned controlled trial of a food delivery dietary intervention targeting increased omega-3 intake to determine whether dietary modifications can improve Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) outcomes and attenuate the adverse effects of particulate matter on respiratory health.
View original scientific description
A randomized controlled trial of a food delivery dietary intervention targeting increased omega-3 intake to determine whether dietary modifications can improve Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) outcomes and attenuate the adverse effects of particulate matter on respiratory health. Investigators believe that study results will comprehensively address the impact of an evidence-based nutrition intervention on COPD health and provide a framework for dietary intervention within other chronic diseases disproportionately impacting susceptible, low-income populations.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Home delivery Omega-3 rich Food
The active treatment arm will receive voucher (with a specified amount) weekly home delivery omega-3 rich food for the 12-weeks (3 months) intervention. Participants will be limited to purchasing foods rich in omega-3 only.
BEHAVIORAL
Dietary Motivational Coaching
The active treatment arm will receive weekly personalize dietary couching by a dietary coach on omega-3 rich food for the 12-weeks intervention. Participant will also receive educational materials and guidance about what kind of food to order, how to cook, prepare (recipes) and store omega-3 rich foods.
BEHAVIORAL
Home delivery Food
The control treatment arm will receive voucher (with a specified amount) weekly home delivery food (any kind of food) for the 12-weeks (3 months) intervention. Participant will not receive dietary coaching on food choices and will not be limited to purchasing foods rich in omega-3.
Primary outcome measures
Change in COPD health status as assessed by the COPD assessment test
Time frame: Baseline, months 1 and 2 follow up calls, 3 months and 6 months
COPD health status will be assessed with the COPD assessment test (CAT). The total score is from 0 to 40. Higher scores indicate worse COPD control.
Change in COPD health status/health-related quality of life as assessed by the Clinical COPD Questionnaire health-related quality of life questionnaire
Time frame: Baseline, months 1 and 2 follow up calls, 3 months and 6 months
The Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ) health-related quality of life questionnaire (HRQoL) with good psychometric properties. The CCQ consists of 10 items with an overall score and 3 domains: Symptoms (4 items), Functional state (4 items) and Mental state (2 items). High scores indicate worse quality of life.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age ≥ 40 years,
- Physician diagnosis of COPD,
- Global Initiative for Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) Stage II-IV disease with Forced Expiratory Volume in the First Second (FEV1)/ Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) \<70% and FEV1 (% predicted) \<80%. IF FEV1/FVC \<70% and FEV1 (% predicted) ≥ 80%, additional requirement will be asked: CAT score ≥ 10. Also, IF available for screening purposes: participant can provide a previous pulmonary function testing (PFT) report within the last 6 months.
- Tobacco exposure ≥ 10 pack-years,
- Poverty criteria as determined by residing in a neighborhood with ≥10% of residents living in poverty, consistent with the definition of poverty area OR not access to private health insurance, OR only completed high school education or less.
- Low omega-3 intake (reported daily intake of EPA+DHA intake \<500 mg via diet and/or supplement) at the screening visit, and
- Willing to comply with dietary recommendations
Exclusion criteria
- Participant planning to change residence during study period,
- Other chronic lung disease, except those with history of asthma if it felt by the investigator not to be a primary diagnosis.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding and
- Reported unwillingness to eat seafood.
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
Collaborators
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations