Renowned Indian Tabla musician and composer Zakir Hussain passed away on December 15, 2024, at the age of 73. He was one of the finest tabla players globally and died of a disease known as Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). In a statement released by Zakir Hussain’s family, they said: “The Indian classical music icon died from Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, a chronic lung disease, at a hospital in San Francisco.”
What is IPF?
While talking to News24, Dr. Muhammed Huzaifa from AIIMS Bhubaneswar stated, ‘Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive lung disease of unknown cause that primarily affects older adults. It results in repeated, unidentified lung injuries, leading to abnormal repair processes and excessive scarring (fibrosis). This thickening and stiffening of the lung tissue progressively impair breathing and oxygen exchange.’
What are the causes and symptoms?
The most common signs that someone might experience with this disease are shortness of breath and a frequent cough. According to Dr. Huzaifa, he added, ‘While the exact cause remains unclear, risk factors include ageing, genetic predisposition, smoking, environmental exposures, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Common symptoms include persistent dry cough, progressive shortness of breath, fatigue, and unintended weight loss. In advanced stages, patients may experience cyanosis, finger clubbing, and respiratory failure.’
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Who does it affect the most?
Typically, the chance of developing IPF increases as we get older, which is why it is more commonly seen in people in their 60s and 70s. It is pretty uncommon for anyone under 50 to experience this condition.
How can it be treated?
While there’s currently no cure for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), there are treatments available that can make a big difference in managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. Medications like Nintedanib and Pirfenidone can help protect your lungs and reduce flare-ups.
Dr Huzaifa added, ‘Diagnosis involves high-resolution CT (HRCT), pulmonary function tests, and exclusion of other diseases. Preventive measures include avoiding smoking, managing GERD, reducing pollutant exposure, and staying vaccinated. Although there is no cure for IPF, treatments such as antifibrotic medications, oxygen supplementation, and pulmonary rehabilitation can help slow progression. For severe cases, lung transplantation remains a potential life-saving option to improve survival and quality of life.’
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