Dr. Lisa Wickerson, University Health Network, Toronto, ON

Despite the prevalence of domiciliary oxygen therapy in ILD/IPF, there is a paucity of disease-specific evidence alongside heterogeneity in clinical guidelines and practices. This presentation will provide an overview of the oxygen needs of people with ILD/IPF, summarize the recent studies on oxygen therapy in ILD/IPF, and discuss potential strategies to manage hypoxemia and support physical activity over the course of disease progression.

Learning Objectives
At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:

  • Describe the epidemiology and significance of hypoxemia in IPF;
  • Discuss the current evidence and gaps around long-term, ambulatory and nocturnal oxygen therapy in ILD/IPF; and
  • Identify challenges and clinical strategies for managing exertional oxygen needs and supporting physical activity over time in IPF.

CanMEDs Competencies addressed:
Collaborator, Communicator, Health Advocate, Professional