What is pulmonary fibrosis? pulmonaryfibrosis.org
There are more than 200 types of interstitial lung diseases (ILD), which are characterized by varied amounts of inflammation, scarring, or both, that damage the ability of the lung to absorb oxygen from the air. Pulmonary fibrosis (PF), means scarring of the lung, and can be seen in many types of ILD. More than 250,000 Americans are living with PF and ILD. Difficult to diagnose, PF and ILD can be debilitating and, in some cases, incurable. Causes of PF and ILD include the use of certain medications, radiation to the chest, autoimmune diseases, environmental, and occupational exposures. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, which has no known cause, is one of the most common forms of PF. The prevalence of PF and ILD is on the rise with more than 50,000 new cases diagnosed annually. With no known cure, certain forms of PF, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, (IPF), may take the lives of patients within three to five years from diagnosis. The good news for people living with PF is that there are treatments designed to specifically manage the symptoms of the disease and researchers are studying new ways to halt its progression.
PREVALENCE
CASES
250,000+ people are living with PF and ILD in the U.S.
50,000 new cases of PF and ILD are diagnosed annually
PREVALENCE
SYMPTOMS
1 in 200 over the age of 70 are diagnosed with IPF
• Shortness of breath • Dry, hacking cough • Fatigue and weakness • Discomfort in chest
CAUSES
PREVALENCE
• Airborne contaminants • Radiation treatments • Some medications • Genetics • Autoimmune diseases
• Supplemental oxygen • Pulmonary rehab • Medications • Lung transplantation
The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation accelerates the development of new treatments and ultimately a cure for pulmonary fibrosis. Until this goal is achieved, the PFF is committed to advancing improved care of patients with PF and providing unequaled support and education resources for patients, caregivers, family members, and health care providers. For more information, visit pulmonaryfibrosis.org or call 844.TalkPFF (844.825.5733).