The hidden pulmonary infection that affects millions of people … NTM Info & Research (NTMIR) urges patients, doctors, caregivers and political leaders who focus attention on lung disease by non -tuberculous mycobacteria (MNT), a growing but little recognized threat in world respiratory health.
MNT pulmonary disease is caused by environmental bacteria found in water and soil. While many people are exposed, people with underlying pulmonary conditions, particularly bronchiectasis, have a higher risk of infection.
It is alarming that recent data shows that MNT cases are increasing by more than 8.2 % per year, especially among women over 65 and people with chronic lung disease. The economic load per patient can exceed $ 30,000 per year, which shows the cost of diagnosis delay and limited treatment options.
“MNT pulmonary disease is one of the most misunderstood and poorly diagnosed conditions that we see today,” said Amy Leitman, JD, president of Ntmir. «Not only threatens lives, but disturbs them. But as soon as we recognize the symptoms, the more possibilities we will have to prevent severe pulmonary damage and improve the evolution of patients ».
Most people diagnosed with MNT also have bronchiectasia, a condition that causes permanent damage to the airways. When combined, diseases can lead to a vicious circle of recurrent infections, decrease in lung function and years of lost opportunities to receive adequate attention.
“We want to train people to listen to their lungs,” Leitman said. «If a person has persistent cough, fatigue, difficulty breathing or inexplicable weight loss, you should not wait. Ask your doctor if the MNT could be the cause.
The motto of this year of World MNT Day, held on August 4, is «Collect. Respond Rise Together »(Recognize. Resurgence together), which emphasizes the critical need of:
– Early diagnosis through better detection protocols
– Patient education and community participation
– Investment in research and innovation to support more effective and accessible treatments
To that end, NTMIR continues to make efforts to:
– Offer comprehensive educational resources on diagnosis, treatment and ongoing clinical research
– Support a worldwide network of patients and caregivers through online communities and local support groups
– To advocate the increase in the financing of research and change policies to address the unsatisfied community needs with MNT
Visit www.worldntmday.org To obtain stories of patients, educational tools, information on clinical trials and ways to put into action.
