The month of September is designated as Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month (PFAM), which was first started by the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF), the nation’s leading pulmonary fibrosis (PF) patient education and advocacy organization.
While considered a rare disease, PF affects more than 200,000 Americans, causes progressive, irreversible scarring of the lungs, and there is no known cure. Family physicians can observe PFAM by watching for the first signs of this disease in their patients.
“Our research shows a clear need to improve awareness and understanding of PF,” said William Schmidt, president and CEO of the PFF. “We appreciate the Ohio Academy of Family Physicians’ support by educating its members about the disease and joining our efforts to drive earlier diagnoses, advocate for needed research, and ultimately find a cure.”
As part of the 30-day campaign in September, the PFF will celebrate a diverse group of PF heroes who are advocating for awareness of the disease. Education events, fundraisers, and community walks will offer numerous opportunities to build awareness. In Ohio, the Terminal Tower in Cleveland will join iconic sites nationwide by shining blue with hope for the PF community. These buildings will be featured in the PFF’s #BlueUp4PF social media campaign. Follow along at @pfforg on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.