Breathing hope: fighting the lung disease pulmonary fibrosis

Dr Susanne Stowasser, a dedicated pulmonologist at Boehringer Ingelheim, has been on a 15-year journey with us. This has made her a subject matter expert, always keeping her focus on patients’ needs. 

How can raising more attention help people living with pulmonary fibrosis? 

Susanne: The problem with pulmonary fibrosis being so unknown is that it’s often unnoticed and overlooked, misunderstood and underdiagnosed. The disease is as ruthless as cancer, with a high mortality rate, but doesn't get the same recognition. But here’s the thing: while the lack of awareness about pulmonary fibrosis is certainly a problem, it’s also an opportunity to shed light on this condition. That’s why we’re constantly talking about it. More attention to this disease means more awareness and better understanding, which could result in earlier detection and diagnosis, and therefore better access to treatment options. It could provide those living with pulmonary fibrosis with hope – it's a call to action that can change lives.

How do we ensure that our research is patient-centered and how does this approach influence our research process? 

Susanne: The basis of all patient-centricity is to address high unmet need – which we have done, and will continue to do, in the field of pulmonary fibrosis. Patients we ultimately develop our solutions for have become our partners in clinical research. We’ve established robust processes in clinical development to include patients as advisors, for example in study simulations, and implement their recommendations wherever possible. There has been a clear shift from development for patients to development with patients in the last couple of years.

And what about collaboration with the scientific community? 

Susanne: We need to join forces in the fight against diseases like pulmonary fibrosis – it's not one that you can fight alone. We’re teaming up with the scientific community to build a stronger, more informed public against the disease. By partnering with researchers and organizations, we’re creating a shared intelligence that breaks down barriers. We share insights and knowledge, exchange ideas, and pool resources to speed up progress in research. Together, we’re stronger, smarter, and more capable of making a difference.

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about pulmonary fibrosis?

Susanne: Spotting the signs of pulmonary fibrosis early is key! It’s not just important, it's empowering. It's about taking control, seeking help early, and improving outcomes. A persistent dry cough, shortness of breath even during routine activities, unexplained fatigue – these aren’t just symptoms. They’re a call to action that can lead to early diagnosis and better patient outcomes.

Interested in learning more? 

Check out our podcast "Journeys through pulmonary fibrosis" that aims to bring together different experiences and perspectives or our pulmonary fibrosis infographic.  Or browse our patient website for lots of helpful information if you or a loved one is living with pulmonary fibrosis. 

More information is also available on our pulmonary fibrosis landing page.