Indian Council of Medical Research's network of pulmonary fibrosis (INPF): A big step forward towards understanding interstitial lung diseases in India.

Abstract

Background: Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a serious irreversible, often progressive, lung condition that can lead to respiratory failure and early death. Indian data on epidemiology of the disease is scarce. To better understand the nation-wide burden, population characteristics and treatment outcomes, and capacity building of clinicians for management of patients with ILDs, ICMR's Network of Pulmonary Fibrosis (INPF) was established. Objective: To describe the rationale, protocol, and current status of INPF.

Materials and methods: The network, consisting of 23 centres across the country, was formally launched in August 2022. Governed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and its task force (TF) committee, INPF has been recruiting all new and previously diagnosed adult patients (age >18 years) with ILDs. The diagnosis and sub classification of ILD was based on multi-disciplinary team discussion (MDD). The data is secured in the online database incorporated in the INPF website. Progress of the network is continuously monitored by the investigators at the centres and by the TF at the ICMR.

Results: As on February 2026, 11,544 have been enrolled in INPF. Connective disease associated-ILD (CTD-ILD) was the most common ILD constituting 28.46% (3,286) of the patients. Currently, patients are being enrolled for four proposed sub-studies with satisfactory progress. Four capacity building sessions has been conducted.

Conclusion: INPF is one of the largest ILD registries in the world. It also provides pulmonologists a platform to conduct research in ILD and better equip themselves to manage patients.