January 15, 2026
The strategy focuses on three priorities: expanding APF’s support so more people can access better help when they need it, improving access to faster diagnosis and fairer care within the NHS, and accelerating research to improve treatments and bring the field closer to a cure. It is underpinned by the guiding message For Every Breath, For Every Journey, For Every Future.
At its heart, the strategy is about reaching more people and making sure no one faces pulmonary fibrosis alone. APF will work to expand and strengthen its support so more people, wherever they live, can access trusted information, practical help and connection when they need it most. At the same time, APF will significantly increase its investment in research shaped by lived experience, driving progress towards better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Daniel Saxton, CEO of Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis, said:
“Our new strategy is bold and ambitious, and it reflects the voices and experiences of people living with pulmonary fibrosis. Over the next five years, we will deliver more than £13 million to expand support, strengthen care and significantly increase investment in research.
“This level of investment will allow us to reach more people and ensure that no one faces pulmonary fibrosis alone.”
It’s currently estimated that over 150,000 people are living with pulmonary fibrosis, around 18,000 new cases are diagnosed each year and more than 5,000 people die from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) each year. Pulmonary fibrosis is a life-limiting condition which reduces lung capacity and makes breathing increasingly difficult. Treatment options are limited and there is no known cure.
APF’s five-year strategy has been developed following extensive consultation with people living with pulmonary fibrosis, as well as families, carers and healthcare professionals across the UK.
To find out more about APF’s new five-year strategy, visit the APF strategy page.