Federal Grant Award Summary

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) awarded Oregon Health & Science University a $737,378 Project Grant on June 5, 2026, under the Cardiovascular Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.837) to conduct a follow-up study of preterm infants participating in a randomized controlled trial evaluating extended Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (ECPAP) therapy. The research will continue longitudinal evaluation of former preterm infants through school age to determine whether ECPAP in stable preterm infants during neonatal intensive care produces persistent long-term improvements in airway and lung growth and function. The study builds on prior findings demonstrating that ECPAP resulted in larger lung volumes, improved gas exchange, and reduced wheeze compared to standard discontinuation of CPAP when infants achieve respiratory stability.

The project extends through March 31, 2031, and will examine whether the initial benefits of extended CPAP observed at 6 and 12 months persist into school age, addressing a critical NIH priority in pediatric lung development. By investigating mechanisms through which ECPAP stimulates lung growth in preterm infants—a population at elevated risk for chronic respiratory morbidity throughout childhood and into adulthood—the research seeks to establish evidence-based clinical interventions that may reduce long-term respiratory complications including asthma diagnosis and respiratory hospitalizations.