A UK-wide campaign is being launched today (28th April) to raise awareness and support research into pulmonary fibrosis.
According to the NHS, pulmonary fibrosis is a ‘chronic, progressive lung disease where tissue deep in the lungs becomes scarred, thick and stiff’, making it hard to breathe. Currently, there is no cure.
The initiative, called Every Breath is Precious: 900 Miles for the Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust, will lead up to a 900 to 1,000 mile run across Britain in September, led by ultra runner Professor Nick Ashill.
Image: Nick Ashill
Organisers say the campaign has been launched because awareness of the condition remains sparse. Peter Bryce, chairman of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust, said: ‘Charities and volunteers play a vital role in reaching people where they are. This campaign is about building a national movement that no single organisation could achieve alone.’
Separate research from Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis shows almost 30% of the UK population have never heard of the disease, despite it having a worse survival rate than many common cancers (three to seven years).
What’s more, over 75% of patients in a recent survey reported that their GP did not mention the illness as a possibility before referral, leading to a lead-stage diagnosis and reduced quality of life.
Campaign organisers said their aim is to raise £100,000 to fund support services, provide equipment and contribute to research.
Before the run takes place in September, community groups, charities and volunteers are being encouraged to set up local fundraisers, of which more information can be found here.
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