GlaxoSmithKline Inc. today announced a $1-million investment to establish a McMaster University research chair in pediatric asthma at the Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton.

The creation of this chair is part of the GlaxoSmithKline Pathfinders Fund for Leaders in Canadian Health Science Research, a $10-million initiative to help fight the brain drain in Canada by providing opportunities for leading medical researchers and scientists.

The GlaxoSmithKline Chair in Pediatric Asthma will enable the Firestone Institute to create a permanent position, allowing the recipient to conduct research that will improve the understanding of this chronic disease and potentially lead to pioneering new treatments for Canadian children with asthma.

“This is an important research investment into a disease that has a
tremendous impact on all segments of the population, but especially
children,” said Paul Lucas, president and CEO of GlaxoSmithKline Inc. “As a company, we have been a leader in the treatment of asthma for more than 30 years, working with organizations like the Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health to improve the understanding and management of asthma in Canada. This investment is part of our longstanding commitment to asthma research.”

“The work being done in the Faculty of Health Sciences at McMaster
University rivals any in Canada, and this chair will expand that
reputation,” said Peter George, President of McMaster University. “It will allow us to continue to attract leading scientists and provide an enriching environment to encourage world-class research, and also affirms our strong partnership with St. Joseph's Healthcare and the Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health.”

Asthma is a chronic lung disease resulting in recurrent attacks of
breathlessness, generally accompanied by wheezing, chest tightness and/or coughing. The disease affects more than two million Canadians, including an estimated 10 to 15 per cent of Canada's children.

In Canada, asthma is among the most common causes of emergency room
visits, hospitalizations and unscheduled doctor visits. It is also the
most common reason that children miss school. Approximately 450 Canadians die each year from asthma, and it is estimated that more than 80 per cent of these deaths could be prevented with proper asthma education and treatment.