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Dr Greg Fox is a respiratory physician and epidemiologist from Sydney University, with a research interest in lung health in resource-limited settings.
He lived in Vietnam for 4 years, establishing multi-centre studies to enhance case detection for tuberculosis. He has continued his collaboration with research partners in Vietnam, leading studies in the management of chronic lung disease and drug resistant tuberculosis. He works clinically at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney.
What do you hope to achieve through your research?
The Vietnam COPD and Asthma Prevention Study (V-CAPS) aims to develop new strategies to improve access to treatment for chronic lung disease, and reduce the burden of smoking in Vietnam.
Tell us a little more about the project you are working on
We will undertake a randomised controlled trial to evaluate two separate interventions. Firstly, we will expand access to diagnosis and treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma through central and local government health services in Vietnam. This will allow us to evaluate the impact of chronic lung disease, and develop cost-effective strategies to reduce the rate of exacerbations in patients with obstructive lung disease. Second, we will engage health care workers in smoking cessation activities within the health care system. Doctors remain a key population to lead smoking cessation efforts, yet still have high rates of smoking themselves. Thus, both of our strategies will involve working closely with policymakers, clinicians and patients to develop sustainable and feasible low-cost approaches that will provide the evidence needed to change practice in Vietnam.
How has being part of GACD helped your research?
GACD provides a network of top researchers working in chronic lung disease throughout the world. We look forward to sharing insights and learning lessons from other groups, and developing our capacity to use implementation science as a tool for meaningful policy change.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I love visiting the clinics in Vietnam where we undertake our work and meeting the clinicians and patients who contribute to our studies. I also enjoy the opportunity to jump on a motorbike and ride around the busy streets of Vietnam.
Apart from the project, what are your other passions in life?
I enjoy outdoor sports, particularly cycling and running. I particularly enjoy spending time bushwalking and camping.
Can you name someone who has inspired you in your life and work?
I have been inspired by the wonderful British documentary-maker and biologist Sir David Attenborough. Throughout his long career, he has shown enormous enthusiasm for the natural world, communicating its wonder and beauty to people all over the world. His combination of inquisitiveness and passion provide a great example to scientists and researchers.