The aims of this project are to define the natural history of chronic moist cough and bronchiectasis; to identify the risk factors associated with progression from early/mild disease to bronchiectasis; to evaluate maintenance antibiotic treatment in the prevention of pulmonary exacerbations; and to assess the impact of antibiotic treatment on antibiotic resistance.

This study will help determine policy initiatives to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with chronic and recurrent respiratory illness in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

By documenting the epidemiology and clinical course of chronic moist cough and bronchiectasis in these children, the study will provide a much-needed rationale for medical management.

If the study demonstrates that azithromycin is effective in reducing the number and the severity of recurrent respiratory episodes (pulmonary exacerbations), this would be a major advance in our knowledge of effective interventions.

For children involved in the study, the adherence to a study protocol to ensure appropriate diagnostic assessment, regular review, and adjustment of medical treatment as clinically indicated should improve outcomes.

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