How are energy investors positioned?
BOSTON - PureTech Health plc (NASDAQ:PRTC, LSE:PRTC), a clinical-stage biotherapeutics company, has published a study in BMC Pulmonary Medicine highlighting the significant unmet needs of individuals living with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The research, conducted in collaboration with experts and the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, indicates substantial gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for IPF patients.
The study involved 106 participants from across the United States and utilized qualitative interviews and online surveys to document their experiences. It was presented at various medical conferences, including the 2023 Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Summit, the American Thoracic Society 2024 International Conference, and the CHEST 2024 Annual Meeting.
Dr. Camilla Graham, Senior Vice President of Medical (TASE:BLWV) Affairs at PureTech and lead author of the study, emphasized the importance of integrating patient perspectives into every stage of diagnosis, disease management, education, and clinical development. Despite the existence of approved therapies, antifibrotic uptake remains low, reflecting a lack of engagement and understanding of patient experiences with IPF.
The research underscores the need for increased disease awareness, education, and patient-centered approaches to care. Diagnosis timelines vary widely, with some individuals experiencing years of delays. The majority of participants expressed satisfaction with their healthcare provider interactions but also sought information from the internet and support groups, highlighting the need for accessible, high-quality resources.
Antifibrotic treatments, while slowing disease progression for many, presented challenges in terms of side effects and perceptions of effectiveness. Over half of the participants adjusted their dosing to manage adverse effects, suggesting the need for better-tolerated medications and patient-centered education on symptom management.
Additionally, nearly 90% of study participants reported managing additional health challenges alongside IPF, indicating the critical importance of coordinated care among IPF-treating providers and the broader care team.
The study also pointed out the need for holistic support in managing the benefits and burdens of supplemental oxygen therapy. Participants recognized the symptom relief provided by oxygen therapy but also described its logistical challenges, financial burdens, and emotional toll.
PureTech’s research aims to drive meaningful advances in care, education, and therapeutic development that reflect the realities of patients with IPF. The company acknowledges the contributions of the participants and the support of the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation and Breathe Support Network in developing this comprehensive study.
IPF is a rare, progressive lung disease with a median survival of two to five years after diagnosis, affecting over 230,000 people in the United States and EU5. While two therapies are approved to treat IPF, their use remains limited, highlighting the need for more effective treatments.
This article is based on a press release statement from PureTech Health plc.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.