Research Burden of Interstitial Lung Diseases in Turkey - RBILD

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Epidemiology
• Health Economics

Background:

• Interstitial lung disease (ILD) presents a significant global health challenge.
• Understanding the specific etiological distribution and economic burden of ILD in Turkey is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the etiological spectrum of ILD in Turkey.
• To characterize the epidemiological features of ILD patients.
• To determine the direct costs associated with the initial diagnosis of ILD.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, prospective, cross-sectional clinical observation study.
• Inclusion of 1070 adult patients diagnosed with ILD.
• Data collection on diagnosis, symptoms, physical examination, radiological findings, treatment, and costs.

Main Results:

• Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) was the most frequent diagnosis (30.5%).
• Dyspnea was the most common symptom (75.9%); bibasilar inspiratory crackles (56.2%) and specific radiological findings (55.9%) were prevalent.
• Clinical and radiological findings were primary diagnostic tools (74.9%), with systemic steroids and antifibrotic drugs as common treatments. Median diagnostic cost was 540 Turkish Lira.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a comprehensive overview of ILD epidemiology and initial diagnostic costs in Turkey.
• Findings offer a basis for comparison with international data, informing national strategies for ILD management.
• This research supports the development of targeted healthcare policies and resource allocation for ILD in Turkey.