ABOUT IPF

> Causes of IPF

"Idiopathic" means unknown—no one knows the exact cause of IPF. What is understood is that with IPF, there is a change in the lung's normal healing process that produces extra scar tissue. Unfortunately, there are no symptoms of this change until the scar tissue builds up in the lungs and affects breathing. The causes of this abnormal healing process are unknown. But there are a number of factors that have been identified as putting people at increased risk of developing IPF.

POTENTIAL RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH IPF

Cigarette smoking may increase the risk of developing IPF. Some cases of IPF occur in patients who have family members with IPF, which suggests that genetics may contribute to the risk of developing IPF in certain individuals. Although these risk factors are associated with IPF, it is important to remember that they have not been shown to cause IPF—the cause of IPF is still not known.

Related Links: Learn About IPF, Signs & Symptoms, Diagnosis, Therapies