With Annual NTM Case Rates Rising, Patients and Providers Are Urged to Recognize the Symptoms and Risks
As the world prepares to observe World NTM DayonAugust 4, 2025,NTM Info & Research (NTMir)is calling on patients, physicians, caregivers, and policy leaders to shine a spotlight onnontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease, a growing but underrecognized threat to global respiratory health.
Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/ntm-info-and-research/9346751-en-hidden-lung-infection-impacting-millions-world-ntm-day-spotlight-awareness
NTM lung disease is caused by environmental bacteria found in water and soil. While many are exposed, people with underlying lung conditions-particularlybronchiectasis-are at higher risk of infection. Alarmingly, new data show thatNTM cases are rising by more than 8.2% annually, particularly among women over age 65 and individuals with chronic lung disease. Theeconomic burdenper patient can exceed$30,000 per year, underscoring the cost of delayed diagnosis and limited treatment options.
“NTM lung disease is one of the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed conditions we see today,” saidAmy Leitman, JD, President of NTMir. “It doesn't just threaten lives-it disrupts them. But the earlier we recognize the symptoms, the better our chances of preventing severe lung damage and improving patient outcomes.”
Most people diagnosed with NTM also havebronchiectasis, a condition that causes permanent damage to the airways. When combined, the diseases can lead to a vicious cycle of recurring infections, declining lung function, and years of missed opportunities for proper care.
“We want to empower people tolisten to their lungs,” said Leitman. “If someone is experiencing persistent coughing, fatigue, shortness of breath, or unexplained weight loss-don't wait. Ask your doctor if NTM could be the cause.”
World NTM Day: Raising Voices, Inspiring Action
This year's theme,”Recognize. Respond. Rise Together,”emphasizes the critical need for:
— Early diagnosisthrough improved screening protocols
— Patient educationand community engagement
— Investment in research and innovationto support more effective and accessible treatments
To that end,NTMircontinues to lead efforts to:
— Delivercomprehensive educational resourceson diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing clinical research
— Support aglobal network of patients and caregiversthrough online communities and local support groups
— Advocate forincreased research fundingand policy change to address the unmet needs of the NTM community
Visitwww.WorldNTMDay.orgfor patient stories, educational tools, clinical trial information, and ways to take action.
How You Can Help:
— Learn the symptomsand risk factors by visitingWorldNTMDay.org
— Sharesocial media posts, videos, and infographics using#WorldNTMDay2025
— Join a support groupor community event near you
— Encourage your healthcare providersto consider NTM in patients with unexplained respiratory symptoms
Together, we can improve outcomes, expand awareness, and give a stronger voice to those living with NTM lung disease.
About NTM Info & Research (NTMir):NTM Info & Research (NTMir) is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization formed on behalf of patients with pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) disease for patient support, medical education and research. The organization serves patients, healthcare providers and researchers dealing with bronchiectasis and NTM. It advocates a broad agenda to promote early diagnosis, improved treatments, and research. The mission is to bring a voice to the concerns of all our constituents with government officials and agencies that guide, research, and regulate therapies developed to treat these diseases. NTM Info & Research recognizes the need for advancement in education and treatment of bronchiectasis.
About World NTM Day 2025:
World NTM Day, observed annually onAugust 4, is a global awareness initiative led byNTM Info & Research (NTMir)to spotlight the rising impact ofnontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease-a serious and often misunderstood condition that affects tens of thousands each year.
The2025 theme, “Recognize. Respond. Rise Together,”underscores the urgent need to increase awareness, improve early detection, and empower patients and providers with knowledge. As NTM cases continue to climb and too many remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, World NTM Day calls on the global community to take action-by learning the signs, supporting those affected, and advancing research that brings hope for better outcomes.
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SOURCE NTM Info & Research (NTMir)
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