It’s true what they say about life being unpredictable, and those living with a chronic illness know this better than anyone. Since my diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) nearly three years ago, I have faced many uncertain times. And though I’m aware of the fickle nature of…
The Good, Bad, and Ugly Truths of Living with Pulmonary Fibrosis
A small Phase 1 pilot study found improved physical function in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients treated with senolytic therapies. The trial was conducted by researchers at University of Texas Health San Antonio, in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic and the Wake Forest School of Medicine. The findings…
Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) patients often experience a sudden worsening of their disease — this is referred to as an “acute exacerbation.” An event such as infection often triggers the exacerbation, and sometimes the cause is unknown. About three weeks ago, I started needing more oxygen. I now require 1…
Evaluating the lung area that is normal, or healthy, can help predict the survival of patients with combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema (CPFE) at the time of lung cancer diagnosis, according to a new study. The research, “Reduced area of the normal lung on high-resolution computed tomography…
Relationships make the world go round, and connection with others is an essential part of our human existence. These range from the intimate ties between spouses to the close bonds between parents and children, siblings, and grandparents. Friendships and relationships with co-workers are also important in our…
One year of treatment with Genentech‘s Esbriet (pirfenidone) significantly reduced the incidence of disease progression events — including decline in lung function and physical capacity, respiratory-related hospitalizations, and death — in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis…
A Phase 1 trial shows that combining Sprycel (dasatinib) with the plant-based flavonoid quercetin improved the physical function of people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). However, patients’ pulmonary function remained unchanged. The study, “Senolytics in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: Results from a first-in-human, open-label, pilot study” was published…
I have never really believed in the importance of making New Year’s resolutions. That’s because I think people can choose to better themselves through personal goals or resolutions at any point in the year, not just when the calendar flips. I like thinking about what I’d like to…
A Phase 1 trial of an investigational treatment for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), PLN-74809, has dosed a first group of healthy participants, Pliant Therapeutics announced. PLN-74809, the company’s lead candidate, is a small molecule that selectively inhibits both alphaVβ1 and αVβ6 integrins. These proteins mediate cell adhesion and are specific for…
Happy New Year! I consider it a minor miracle that I made it to 2019. You may feel this way, too. I was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis (PF) four and a half years ago and given a few months to a year to live. I’m grateful to…
