IPF is a life threatening condition of the lungs where tissue becomes thickened, stiff, and scarred over a period of time. The lungs lose their ability to take in and transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. It affects as many as 14–43 people per 100,000 worldwide, and while research has identified key factors in the development of IPF, no direct cause is known. Acute IPF exacerbations are defined as rapid deteriorations of symptoms within days or weeks. Reducing the risk of acute exacerbations is a key treatment goal in the management of all patients with IPF.