Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 April 2013
601. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health the supports available here to persons suffering from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis; if his attention has been drawn to the work done by the Irish Lung Fibrosis Association; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18491/13]
Amharc ar fhreagra653. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the number of sufferers in the State of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis who develop breathlessness, fatigue, cough and ultimately respiratory failure; and the average current annual costs of their current treatment from the Health Service Executive. [19026/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 601 and 653 together.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a lung disease affecting both genders and usually in patients older than 50 years of age. The symptoms appear gradually and include a cough and breathlessness. It is not know how many patients suffer from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in Ireland. The annual costs for treatment are unavailable. The diagnosis and treatment of this condition is made in the hospitals setting. A variety of medical treatments have been used to treat the condition and, in some cases, may require a lung transplant.
