02/09/2026
We are supporting Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month 2026, highlighting the specialist care, treatment, rehabilitation and research available to people living with pulmonary fibrosis and other interstitial lung diseases (ILD).
Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition that causes scarring of the lungs, making it increasingly difficult to breathe and carry out everyday activities. Through specialist care, treatment and ongoing research, the Western Trust is helping patients manage their condition and maintain their quality of life.
Siobhan Donnelly and Ann Box, Interstitial Lung Disease Specialist Nurses with the Western Trust, said:
“September is Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month and we are delighted to support this important campaign.
“ILD Nurse led clinics are offered at Altnagelvin Hospital, Derry/Londonderry, South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen and Omagh Hospital and Primary Care Complex with the aim of providing services close to where our patients live. If you or a loved one have any concerns about your lung symptoms, please contact your GP in the first instance and they will make a referral to the Western Trust Respiratory Service if appropriate.”
Highlighting the role of the Interstitial Lung Disease Service in the Western Trust and explaining the patient journey Siobhan said:
“If you have a diagnosis of Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) such as Pulmonary Fibrosis, when you come to clinic the Specialist Nurse will carry out a comprehensive respiratory assessment. We will discuss, tests and treatments, and monitor patients for signs of disease progression. The Specialist Nurse will provide education and advice about your diagnoses, treatment, lifestyle changes and recommendations to help alleviate any symptoms you are experiencing. We liaise closely within the multi-disciplinary team about patient concerns. We are a point of contact for the patient to help navigate their journey living with Pulmonary Fibrosis.
“We are also pleased to announce the launch of ILD Pulmonary Rehab programme in the southern sector of the Trust. This is to mirror what has already been available in the northern sector of the Trust.
“This is a 6 week programme of exercise and education to help those with ILD to improve their lung function, enhance their physical fitness, provide education and promote emotional well- being. Pulmonary rehabilitation has been extensively researched and has had great results for patients and we are delighted to be able to offer this programme across the Omagh and Fermanagh area.”
As part of Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month, we are also highlighting the specialist treatment, research opportunities and support available to people living with pulmonary fibrosis.
Patient Story – Eric Brown
Eric Brown from Fermanagh shared his experience of living with pulmonary fibrosis and the support he has received since being diagnosed in 2019. Eric said:
“Receiving a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis came as a shock, but I quickly realised there was a great deal of support available.
“The care I receive from my Consultant and ILD Nurse is second to none. They always take the time to explain things clearly and are there whenever I need advice or support.
“Although living with pulmonary fibrosis can be challenging, I feel very well looked after. The treatment and support available have made a real difference to me.
“For anyone newly diagnosed, my advice would be not to lose faith. The doctors, nurses and wider healthcare team will do everything they can to support you and make things as manageable as possible.”
Research and Clinical Trials
Dr Nazia Chaudhuri, Respiratory Consultant with expertise in Interstitial Lung Disease at the Western Trust, explained the importance of clinical trials in improving treatments for pulmonary fibrosis. Dr Chaudhuri said:
“Pulmonary fibrosis is an umbrella term for more than 100 conditions that cause scarring of the lungs. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is the most common type, although the exact cause remains unknown.
“While current treatments cannot cure the disease, they can help slow its progression and support people to live longer and better lives.
“Clinical trials are essential in helping us develop more effective treatments with fewer side effects and, ultimately, find a cure for pulmonary fibrosis.”
“At CTRIC in Altnagelvin Hospital, we are involved in a number of clinical trials for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, progressive pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary fibrosis-related cough. We encourage eligible patients to consider taking part and contribute to future advances in care.”
Treatment and Support
Joanne Kelly, Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Pharmacist with the Western Trust, highlighted the range of support available to patients receiving treatment for pulmonary fibrosis. Joanne said:
“There are currently two anti-fibrotic medicines available in Northern Ireland for pulmonary fibrosis. While these medicines are not a cure, they can slow disease progression and help preserve lung function and quality of life.
“As an ILD Pharmacist, I work closely with patients to ensure they receive the most suitable treatment, understand their medication and have access to ongoing support throughout their care journey.
“We also help patients manage any side effects, monitor the effectiveness of treatment and work alongside GPs and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Living with pulmonary fibrosis can be extremely challenging, but regular support from the ILD Team, combined with medication, pulmonary rehabilitation and other specialist services, can help people maintain a good quality of life.”