CHICAGO, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Eleven leading health advocacy organizations have joined forces to announce the fifth annual ILD Day, taking place on Wednesday, Sept. 10. The national awareness day aims to educate the public about interstitial lung disease (ILD), a group of over 200 debilitating lung conditions that affect more than 250,000 people across the United States.

National Webinar on Genetics and ILD

The centerpiece of ILD Day is a free, live webinar, "Genetics and Beyond: Exploring Interstitial Lung Disease in Families and Individuals."

This interactive event will bring together medical experts, patients, and advocates to explore the genetic and familial aspects of ILD. Attendees will gain insight into current research, diagnostic advances and how ILD affects individuals and their loved ones.

To register and learn more, visit ILDDay.org.

Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis of ILD

In addition to the potential genetic component, ILD can be triggered by a variety of factors including autoimmune diseases, exposure to environmental or occupational hazards (such as dust, mold, or chemicals), radiation to the chest and certain medications. Some interstitial lung diseases have no identifiable cause. The most common type of ILD with unknown cause is referred to as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Common symptoms of ILD tend to develop gradually and may include:

• Shortness of breath, especially during activity
• A persistent, dry cough
• Fatigue and general weakness
• Chest discomfort or tightness
• "Clubbing" of the fingertips (a widening and rounding of the nails)
• Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss

Because these symptoms can mimic other respiratory conditions, a comprehensive diagnostic approach is essential. Diagnosis typically involves high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans to examine the structure of the lungs, as well as pulmonary function tests to assess breathing capacity. In some cases, a lung biopsy may be required to determine the specific type of ILD and guide treatment decisions.

Early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial to managing ILD effectively, as many forms of the disease are progressive. Treatment plans often include medication, lifestyle adjustments, oxygen therapy, and—in advanced cases—consideration for lung transplantation.

ILD Day is a highlight of Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month, held each September to spotlight pulmonary fibrosis as part of the broader group of interstitial lung diseases.

About ILD Day

ILD Day was created to drive awareness of interstitial lung disease (ILD) and is recognized annually in September. It is presented by a collaboration of 11 organizations representing patients affected by interstitial lung disease: Arthritis Foundation, Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research, The Myositis Association, PF Warriors, Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, National Scleroderma Foundation, Nori's Fight, Scleroderma Foundation of Greater Chicago, Scleroderma Research Foundation, Sjögren's Foundation, and Wescoe Foundation for Pulmonary Fibrosis. For more information, visit ILDDay.org.

About the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation

The mission of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation is to accelerate the development of new treatments and ultimately a cure for pulmonary fibrosis. Until this goal is achieved, the PFF is committed to advancing improved care of patients with PF and providing unequaled support and education resources for patients, caregivers, family members, and health care providers. The PFF has a four-star rating from Charity Navigator and is an accredited charity by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance. The Foundation has met all of the requirements of the National Health Council Standards of Excellence Certification Program® and has earned the Guidestar Platinum Seal of Transparency. For more information, visit pulmonaryfibrosis.org or call 844.TalkPFF (844.825.5733)

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SOURCE The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation