Prevalence

How Many People Have IPF?

There is a lack of newly published data to demonstrate an accurate estimate for the incidence of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in the United States. The most recent estimates indicate that approximately 128,000 Americans have IPF (2), although there are published estimates that suggest the number may be as high as 200,000 (9). Varying terminology and lack of standard diagnostic criteria have complicated the accrual of accurate data.

More importantly, it is anticipated that the number of individuals diagnosed with IPF will continue to increase. This will be a result of people living longer, and an improved clinical understanding of IPF which will lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis.

The lack of clinical understanding of IPF remains a concern in the medical community. Limited awareness of the epidemiology (causes) and pathogenesis (disease progression) has made misdiagnosis of IPF a common problem. In fact, a recent study showed that more than 50% of IPF patients may be initially misdiagnosed (3). Further complicating the difficulty in diagnosis is the fact that there are more than 100 different types of interstitial lung diseases (ILD), and it has not been until recent times that the American Thoracic Society (ATS) recognized IPF by its specific clinical and pathological characteristics (10). At times, progress was slowed by an incorrect understanding of the pathophysiology, inability to perform adequate clinical trials, and a failure to communicate and collaborate within the research community (11).

IPF has no strong demographic profile; it is found in equal proportions in urban and rural environments. A history of smoking has been associated with an increased risk of IPF, and a variety of published studies show that, on average, two thirds of those with IPF have a history of smoking (3).

IPF affects more men than women and most commonly occurs between the fifth and seventh decades. The median age at time of diagnosis is approximately 63 years old according to a variety of published studies; however, IPF has been diagnosed from early adulthood into the late eighties.

Prevalence Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation pulmonaryfibrosis.org

MORE ►
About Familial Pulmonary Fibrosis

About Familial Pulmonary Fibrosis - National Jewish Health

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 07:40:29 -0600
Source: National Jewish HealthRelated MedlinePlus Page: Pulmonary Fibrosis

Pulmonary Fibrosis: MedlinePlus

MORE ►

Causes of Pulmonary Fibrosis

Causes of Pulmonary Fibrosis - National Jewish Health
Fri, 24 Feb 2012 07:40:29 -0600
Source: National Jewish HealthRelated MedlinePlus Page: Pulmonary Fibrosis [see above please]

MORE ►
Living with Pulmonary Fibrosis

Living with Pulmonary Fibrosis - American Lung Association
Fri, 24 Feb 2012 07:40:29 -0600
Source: American Lung AssociationRelated MedlinePlus Page: Pulmonary Fibrosis [see above please]

MORE ►
Quality of Life

Quality of Life | Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation | pulmonaryfibrosis.org
Fri, 24 Feb 2012 07:40:29 -0600
Source: Pulmonary Fibrosis FoundationRelated MedlinePlus Page: Pulmonary Fibrosis [see above please]

MORE ►
Therapy for Pulmonary Fibrosis

Therapy for Pulmonary Fibrosis - National Jewish Health
Fri, 24 Feb 2012 07:40:29 -0600
Source: National Jewish HealthRelated MedlinePlus Page: Pulmonary Fibrosis [see above please]