On July 1, the global respiratory community is celebrating World Bronchiectasis Day, an important awareness initiative to raise awareness for bronchiectasis – a chronic, progressive lung condition that remains under the public radar.
Despite being the third most common chronic lung condition worldwide, bronchiectasis is often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, poorly understood, and often mistreated. The World Bronchiectasis Day awareness initiative urges patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to recognize the seriousness of this neglected condition, improve access to diagnosis and care, and promote funding for research.
Description of the condition
Bronchiectasis causes permanent damage to the airways. The airways become widened or scarred, making it difficult to cough up mucus effectively, leading to recurrent respiratory infections. Symptoms include frequent coughing (often with thick, discoloured mucus), mucus production, shortness of breath, recurrent respiratory infections, increased fatigue, unexplained fever, chills, sweating, weight loss, and chest pain. Although bronchiectasis was previously considered a rare condition, studies now show that its prevalence is steadily increasing.
“Although there is currently no cure, early detection and appropriate treatment can dramatically improve the quality of life and long-term health of people with bronchiectasis”, said Dr. Pieter Goeminne, an expert in bronchiectasis and co-author of the forthcoming update of the European Respiratory Society clinical guidelines on the management of bronchiectasis.
“In recent years, significant scientific literature has been published, increasing our knowledge and treatment options for this patient group. These are truly hopeful times for patients suffering from this condition.”
Did you know?
- Pope Francis I suffered from bronchiectasis, which likely contributed greatly to his recurrent respiratory infections and death.
- Unlike asthma or COPD, bronchiectasis can be caused by a variety of conditions, including severe infections, autoimmune disorders, or immune deficiencies.
- People with bronchiectasis may cough daily and produce large amounts of mucus, which is sometimes confused with chronic bronchitis, COPD, or asthma.
- There is no cure, but early diagnosis, clearing the airways, exercise, and appropriate medications can significantly improve quality of life and sometimes halt disease progression.
- On July 1, World Bronchiectasis Day, you can take action around the world to give bronchiectasis the attention it deserves. Share stories, raise awareness, and help build stronger health systems that support timely diagnosis, personalized treatment, and better outcomes. Visit www.worldbronchiectasisday.org or follow the campaign on social media using #WorldBronchiectasisDay.
Dr. Pieter Goeminne, Chair Advocacy Council BeRS
Prof. Dr. Didier Cataldo, Chair Advocacy Council BeRS, President BeLF
Jana De Brandt, Science and Community Manager BeRS and BeLF