Pulmonary Fibrosis Affects 250,000 Americans - September Sparks National Awareness

CHICAGO, Aug. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This September, the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF), will lead a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of pulmonary fibrosis (PF) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) – progressive, life-threatening diseases that affect more than 250,000 Americans. PF and ILD cause scarring and inflammation in the lungs, which makes it difficult for oxygen to get into the bloodstream.

Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month (PFAM) is a time to unite the PF and ILD community, amplify the voices of patients and caregivers, and highlight the urgent need for a cure. This year's theme, "Every breath of the way," honors the strength and solidarity of the PF and ILD community, while marking the PFF's 25^th anniversary of advancing care, support and hope for those living with the disease.

"Pulmonary fibrosis is a life-threatening condition with limited treatment options and no cure," said Dr. Amy Hajari Case, Chief Medical Officer for the PFF. "Through our education, resources, and support, we help patients live more fully. But we urgently need broader awareness because with it comes greater investment in research, faster diagnoses, and stronger support systems for patients and families."

Beginning September 1, the PFF will post daily content across its social media platforms including patient stories, key facts about PF and ILD, and ways to get involved. The Foundation encourages the public to engage with these posts – likes, shares, and comments help expand the reach of PF awareness across the broader social media landscape. Individuals can follow the PFF on social media @pfforg on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Throughout the month, the Foundation will host several in-person and virtual community events, including PFF Walks in the Bay Area (September 6), Chicago (September 20), Washington, D.C. (September 27), and a virtual National Walk Day also on September 27. These walks bring together patients, families, and advocates to raise funds for PF research and support services.

In cities across the country, dozens of iconic landmarks will shine in the PFF's signature blue, symbolizing hope and shining a national spotlight on this underrecognized disease. On September 10, the PFF and 10 partnering organizations will also present the 5th Annual ILD Day, featuring a free webinar, Genetics and Beyond: Exploring Interstitial Lung Disease in Families and Individuals.

PF Awareness Month helps patients and caregivers speak openly about the disease, encourages early diagnosis, and fuels momentum for better care and treatments. With increased visibility, we move closer to finding a cure—and to ensuring that no one faces pulmonary fibrosis alone.

To learn more, get involved, or support PF Awareness Month, visit www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org.

About the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation

The mission of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation is to accelerate 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. The PFF has a four-star rating from Charity Navigator and is an accredited charity by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance. The Foundation has met all of the requirements of the National Health Council Standards of Excellence Certification Program® and has earned the Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency. For more information, visit pulmonaryfibrosis.org or call 844.TalkPFF (844.825.5733)

Contact: Dorothy Coyle, Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 773-332-6201

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SOURCE The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation