With no method for early detection and current treatments limited to slowing, rather than stopping, the decline of lung function, IPF often results in irreversible damage before a clinical diagnosis can be made. In Newfoundland and Labrador, the documented enrichment of familial IPF—including an increased prevalence of variants in genes like TERT—suggests the potential to identify other novel genetic causes of the disease and the biological pathways that drive fibrotic progression.

Like other health research, there is no guarantee this study will result in any significant breakthroughs or directy benefit participants or their families. By taking part in this study, you are contributing to scientific research which may eventually lead to meaningful changes in clinical care.

Questions about your rights as a participant in a research study? Contact the HREA Ethics Office. They are not involved with running this study. Call 709-864-8871 or email info@hrea.ca.

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