Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) Impacts
Lives, But Early Diagnosis Offers Hope
MIAMI, Aug. 1, 2024
/PRNewswire/ -- NTM Info & Research (NTMir), a pioneering
global organization committed to addressing NonTuberculous
Mycobacteria (NTM) and improving respiratory health, is urging the
global community to unite on World NTM Day, observed annually on
August 4th. This year's theme focuses
on raising awareness about this often-misunderstood condition that
significantly impacts lung health.
Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here:
https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9281851-ntm-info-and-research-world-ntm-awareness-day-2024/
NTM are a group of environmental bacteria found in soil and
water. While they can cause infections in various parts of the
body, NTM lung disease is the most common manifestation. Nearly all
NTM patients have bronchiectasis, either before or as a result of
NTM. "There hasn't been enough emphasis on the connection between
NTM lung disease and the underlying lung damage, bronchiectasis,
but the two go hand-in-hand, and impact millions of people
worldwide, costing tens of thousands of dollars per year for each
patient," said Amy Leitman JD, President of NTMir. "Understanding
and managing both conditions gives patients the chance for improved
quality of life and better outcomes."
"Early diagnosis is crucial for managing NTM lung disease
effectively," emphasizes Leitman. "World NTM Day serves as a
crucial opportunity to educate the public and healthcare providers
about NTM, encouraging vigilance and prompt action if concerning
respiratory symptoms persist."
Empowering Patients Through Education and Support
NTMir is dedicated to empowering patients with NTM lung disease
by providing comprehensive resources, including:
- In-depth information about NTM diagnosis, treatment options,
and ongoing research.
- A global network of support groups connecting patients and
creating a sense of community.
- Advocacy efforts aimed at increasing awareness and funding for
NTM research.
Join the Movement: Uniting for NTM Awareness
On World NTM Day (August 4th) and
beyond, NTMir encourages everyone to take action:
- Learn more about NTM lung
disease: Visit WorldNTMDay.org for comprehensive
resources and patient stories.
- Share information: Help raise awareness by sharing
NTMir resources with family, friends, and healthcare providers.
- Get involved: Join online communities or support
groups to connect with others affected by NTM.
Throughout the years, NTM Info & Research has partnered with
global organizations that have been at the forefront of advocacy,
research, and collaboration, driving positive change in the NTM and
bronchiectasis community. Specifically, Insmed, a platinum sponsor
of World NTM Day, developed ARIKAYCE®, the first and
only therapy approved in the United
States for the treatment of refractory NTM lung disease
caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) as
part of a combination antibacterial drug regimen for adult patients
with limited or no alternative treatment options.
Currently, there's an 8.2% rise in the number of NTM cases each
year. NTM awareness and treatment options have made great strides.
However more awareness and research is needed for earlier detection
and treatment options that will support NTM patient's quality of
life. Visit worldntmday.org to learn more and how to take
concrete steps towards supporting those affected by NTM, promoting
early detection, and improving treatment outcomes.
NTM Info & Research (NTMir) is a national 501(c)(3)
non-profit organization formed on behalf of patients with pulmonary
nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) disease for patient support,
medical education and research. The organization serves patients,
healthcare providers and researchers dealing with bronchiectasis
and NTM. It advocates a broad agenda to promote early diagnosis,
improved treatments, and research. The mission is to bring a voice
to the concerns of all our constituents with government officials
and agencies that guide, research, and regulate therapies developed
to treat these diseases. NTM Info & Research recognizes the
need for advancement in education and treatment of
bronchiectasis.
View original
content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/unmasking-a-hidden-lung-threat-world-ntm-day-calls-for-awareness-302211892.html
SOURCE NTM Info & Research