Background: Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) has a significant impact on respiratory health in children and young people (CYP), including development of asthma and asthma control and symptoms. Urgent action is needed to reduce the burden of indoor air pollution (biological and non-biological) including source control and mitigative actions. Rensair air purifier units have built-in antimicrobial technology (bacteria, viruses and fungal/mould spores). Numerous biovalidation reports substantiate their ability to improve IAQ.

Aim: To assess if installation of a Rensair Compact air purifier in the homes of CYP with asthma improves asthma outcomes and is acceptable to CYP and families.

Methods: This is a 12-month pilot study including 20 randomly selected CYP with asthma attending our clinic. Baseline clinical data and data on IAQ will be collected. The air purifier will be installed in their home, to be used all the time for the study period with funding secured to cover the running costs. Follow-up will be prospectively conducted every 3 months and data on the amount of use of the air purifier will be available. 

Results: We have set a priori from a core outcome set the key measures to assess change in outcomes over the study period. These include symptom control, activity/exercise, reliever medication use, asthma attacks/hospitalisation, school attendance and lung function. CYP and families will be asked about the acceptability of using the air purifier and their perception of change in symptoms/quality of life.

Discussion: This pilot study should provide key preliminary data regarding the use of an air purifier on improving asthma outcomes for CYP and form the basis for larger trials.