Change urged as study finds inequality in care for chronic lung disease patients

Chronic lung disease patients who live in deprived areas or further away from clinics are more likely to die compared with wealthier people who live closer, a study has suggested.

Experts warned the findings highlight “an alarming disparity” that “demands urgent attention”.

The study, led by (UEA), analysed data from 2,359 patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which causes the lungs to become scarred and makes breathing increasingly difficult.