The Coalition for Pulmonary Fibrosis (CPF) has launched a newly designed patient guide for patients and families who are battling pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Prevalance and incidence of PF has increased more than 150% since 2000. This follows the 2004 publication of results from the CPF’s Basic Research Questionnaire, which found an alarming need for educational materials specifically for PF, particularly in the areas of lung transplant and oxygen management.

“In addition to personally connecting with every patient who contacts the CPF, this guide serves as a wonderful resource for patients to take charge of their care and have a more informed discussion with their doctor about their condition,” says Marvin Schwarz, MD, chairman of the CPF.

CPF educational materials are peer reviewed and distributed free of charge, with the cost of publications being covered by public support.

“We know from our experience in working with tens of thousands of PF patients throughout the United States that there remains a lack of information available on PF, and that many patients have never heard of the disease until they are diagnosed. This lack of awareness leads to myriad questions and concerns for patients and families, and the CPF is often their first point of contact outside their doctor visits to seek information and support,” says Mishka Michon, chief executive officer of the CPF.