WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, released the following statement after the Senate passed a resolution designating September as “Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month.” Pulmonary fibrosis is a usually fatal disease that occurs when lung tissue becomes scarred, thickened, and stiff. About two-thirds of pulmonary fibrosis patients pass away within three to five years, claiming as many lives per year as breast cancer.

Murphy cosponsored the resolution designating September as “Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month,” which was introduced by U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.). 

“Pulmonary fibrosis is a ruthless disease that knows no boundaries. It scars the lungs, makes it impossible to breathe, and claims 40,000 lives per year. Doctors don’t know what causes it or how to cure it. My uncle died far too young from the disease, so I’ve seen firsthand just how aggressive this horrible disease can be – changing families forever within a matter of months,” said Murphy. “That’s why I’m committed to raising awareness about the disease. It is my hope that Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month will trigger more conversations about the gravity and pervasiveness of the disease, and support the vital research that will bring us closer to a cure.”