THE Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust has welcomed the approval of nerandomilast (Jascayd) by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), describing it as an important milestone for thousands of people living with pulmonary fibrosis across the UK.
The new treatment has been approved for adults with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) and Progressive Pulmonary Fibrosis (PPF), progressive lung diseases that cause irreversible scarring of the lungs and make breathing increasingly difficult.
Although the charity says the approval represents genuine hope for patients and families, it stresses that pulmonary fibrosis remains incurable and that much more still needs to be done to improve awareness, earlier diagnosis and access to specialist care.
Peter Bryce, Chairman of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust, who lives with pulmonary fibrosis himself, said:
“Today’s announcement is genuinely welcome news for the pulmonary fibrosis community. Every new treatment gives people hope and represents another step forward against a disease that has, for far too long, received too little attention.
“For people living with pulmonary fibrosis, every breath matters. Treatments such as nerandomilast won’t cure the disease, but they have the potential to slow its progression, helping some patients preserve lung function and quality of life for longer. That is hugely significant.”
Pulmonary fibrosis affects an estimated 70,000 people across the UK, with more than 6,000 people dying from the disease every year. Symptoms often develop gradually and include persistent breathlessness, chronic cough and overwhelming fatigue, meaning many patients experience delays in diagnosis before receiving specialist treatment.
Peter added:
“This approval is also a reminder of why research matters. Every medical breakthrough begins with years of scientific research, investment and clinical trials.
“But medicines alone are not enough. Too many people are still diagnosed late because awareness of pulmonary fibrosis remains far too low, both among the public and sometimes within healthcare settings. Earlier diagnosis means people can access treatments sooner and potentially benefit for longer.”
The charity says the approval comes at a significant time as it prepares to launch its national Every Breath is Precious John O’Groats to Land’s End run this September. The campaign will see British ultrarunner Professor Nick Ashill attempt to run almost 1,000 miles to raise awareness of pulmonary fibrosis after losing his mother to the disease.
Peter said:
“Today’s news gives hope. Nick’s challenge will help ensure that hope reaches more families by raising awareness of a disease many people have never heard of until it affects someone they love.
“Together, better treatments, greater awareness, earlier diagnosis and continued research offer the best chance of changing the future for everyone living with pulmonary fibrosis.”
The Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust provides support, information and advocacy for patients and families across the UK while campaigning for greater awareness, improved care and continued investment in research.
For more information visit: www.pulmonaryfibrosistrust.org.
