Patients with persistent lung symptoms should be referred to specialised care
The progression of interstitial lung diseases can often be slowed down, if treatment is initiated early, says Minna Purokivi, Professor of Respiratory Medicine.
In fibrotic lung diseases, the lung tissue becomes permanently scarred. There are medications that can slow down the scarring process, but damage that has already occurred cannot be reversed. “Typically, the diagnosis is delayed by 1–2 years from the onset of symptoms, and that’s a challenge,” Purokivi notes.
Symptoms of interstitial lung diseases, such as cough and shortness of breath, may initially resemble many other lung diseases, but if conventional treatments fail, the patient should, according to Purokivi, be promptly referred to specialised care for further assessment.
From rare diseases to major public health conditions
Minna Purokivi was appointed as Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Eastern Finland this January. Her research group focuses, in particular, on interstitial lung diseases (ILD), such as connective tissue disease-associated ILD and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, in which the cause of the disease is unknown. The group aims to advance the diagnostic and prognostic assessment of these diseases. Their research has provided insight into the safety and diagnostic accuracy of cryobiopsy, which has become increasingly widespread as a method for obtaining lung tissue samples.
“One of our aims is to identify biomarkers that can be used to predict the progression of pulmonary fibrosis and response to pharmacotherapy. Fundamental knowledge of the biology of these diseases is still lacking, and this is something we want to explore in Finnish patient cohorts.”
“Prolonged cough is also an important research focus both at the university and in the Clinic of Respiratory Medicine at Kuopio University Hospital. Following the retirement of Professor Heikki Koskela, this line of research is now led by Anne Lätti, MD.”
According to Purokivi, much of this research is carried out alongside clinical work. “I’m delighted by this enthusiasm for research. It also helps us stay up to date and supports our coping with clinical practice.”
Respiratory diseases form an interesting speciality, Purokivi says, as it involves caring for patients from a young age to the final years of life. The spectrum of diseases ranges from various rare lung diseases, infectious diseases and cancers to occupational lung diseases and common public health conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and sleep apnoea.
Genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors can all influence the development of a lung disease. “The lungs are vulnerable to exposures present in inhaled air. Nowadays, risks are well known in many professions and protective measures are in place. However, changes in work environments may introduce new risks that must be addressed quickly. Climate change, too, may affect lung health as, for example, pollen seasons become longer.”
For some unknown reason, lung cancer is becoming more common among non‑smokers, particularly women.
“Smoking remains a key risk factor for pulmonary diseases, and e‑cigarettes and nicotine pouches are not healthier alternatives,” Purokivi emphasises.
Shortage of pulmonologists
According to Purokivi, the future of professional care for patients with pulmonary issues may be threatened by a worsening shortage of pulmonologists. “There are too few specialist training positions, and the number of doctors in training is insufficient to compensate for upcoming retirements, including in our own collaborative area for healthcare and social welfare.”
Basic medical training prepares physicians to treat respiratory diseases in primary care, which is where the majority of patients is taken care of. “Perhaps we could do more to show students what the work of a pulmonologist involves. The field includes diagnostic outpatient work, ward‑based care and procedures in various combinations, offering many interesting career paths depending on one’s interests and the workplace in question.”
Minna Purokivi
Professor of Respiratory Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, 1 January 2026–
- Lic. Med., University of Kuopio 1993
- Specialist Degree in Respiratory Medicine 2001
- MD, University of Kuopio 2002
- Title of Docent in Respiratory Medicine, University of Eastern Finland 2012
- Executive Master of Business Administration (eMBA), University of Oulu, 2021
Key roles:
- Chief Medical Officer, KUH Medical Centre, 2018–2025
- Chief Physician, Respiratory Medicine, KUH, 2021–
- Deputy Chief Physician, Respiratory Medicine, KUH 2010–2023
- Specialist, Respiratory Medicine, KUH 2001–2010
For further information, please contact:
Professor Minna Purokivi, [email protected]