To mark Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month in September 2026, the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the Irish Lung Fibrosis Association (ILFA) are raising awareness of three new support services for patients living with the progressive lung disease. Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic condition characterized by the development of scar tissue in the lungs, which causes inflammation and impairs the body’s ability to absorb oxygen efficiently. An estimated 5,000 people across Ireland currently live with the condition.
New Support Services Funded by the HSE
The newly established initiatives are supported by the HSE National Clinical Programme for Respiratory and aim to bridge gaps in patient care by offering targeted assistance. The three new services include:
- The ILFA Advice Line: A nurse-led telephone service providing timely access to expert guidance and support from an experienced respiratory nurse specialist.
- Psychological Grants Scheme: A program offering funded sessions of specialist psychological counseling for patients and their family members to address the mental health challenges associated with the disease.
- Virtual Pulmonary Rehabilitation Service: A home-based program delivering specialist exercise and education sessions remotely for individuals who cannot travel easily.
HSE Clinical Lead for Respiratory Professor Breda Cushen stated that the new offerings deliver care directly to patients when and where they need it. According to Professor Cushen, lung fibrosis is a progressive and life-limiting disease that presents significant physical and mental health hurdles, making expert guidance essential for patients and their families, particularly those facing travel, distance, or mobility barriers.
National Awareness Campaign and Community Engagement
Alongside clinical service rollouts, the ILFA launched a public awareness campaign for September 2026 centered on the theme “Don’t ignore the signs. Your voice matters.” The campaign uses weekly social media updates starting September 1 to educate the public about the rare disease and encourage community engagement through shares and comments.
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