Bronchiectasis and NTM Association

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. In this episode, Dr. Shoshana Zha and Dr. Rocio Hurtado discuss how health equity and access affect people living with chronic lung disease. They explore how factors like where a person lives, income, race, language, and insurance can impact diagnosis, access to specialists, and treatment. The conversation highlights how policy, clinical care, education, telehealth, advocacy, and the work of the Care Center Network's Health Equity and Access Team can help close these gaps. Disclaimer: This podcast is provided by Bronchiectasis and NTM Association as an educational resource only and should not be considered as offering medical advice. This information should not be used as a substitute for a physician's professional judgment in providing advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any medical or health condition. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new health care regiment. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. JDr. Ashwin Basavaraj, Associate Director at NYU Langone Health, explores how many people are labeled with “severe asthma” or “COPD” when there may be underlying lung damage that has not been fully evaluated. In this episode, we unpack how asthma, COPD, and other disorders can overlap with bronchiectasis and NTM, and why these connections are so often missed. We discuss key red flags such as daily mucus production, frequent infections, and repeated hospitalizations, and talk about when to push for tests like CT scans and testing.

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. Join Dr. George M. Solomon, Center Director at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, as he breaks down the complexities of exacerbations (flare-ups). In this episode, Dr. Solomon explains how infections, environmental triggers, and the lung microbiome contribute to worsening symptoms. Learn about the latest treatment strategies, including the use of antibiotics and airway clearance, as well as how emerging research and clinical trials are shaping the future of care.

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. Join us for an inspiring conversation with John Torrence, a seasoned traveler and patient ambassador for the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association, alongside Nancy, who is eager to rediscover the joys of travel after her diagnosis. In this episode, we explore Nancy’s evolving approach to travel planning as she shares her progress in organizing her trip to Williamsburg, VA. Discover the thoughtful steps she’s taken to prepare, the concerns she’s faces, and how her perspective on travel has changed throughout this journey. If you missed part one, episode 11, be sure to catch up on Nancy's story.

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. Dr. Shelby MacRae, Center Director at LSU Health in New Orleans, outlines five important questions to ask your provider during your specialized visit. This concise 5-minute episode builds on the insights shared in episode 14, where Dr. MacRae provided guidance on what to bring, how to prepare, and what to expect during your appointment.

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. In this episode, Dr. Shelby MacRae, Center Director at LSU Health in New Orleans, addresses your most pressing questions about visiting a Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network location. She discusses what to bring, how to prepare, and what to expect during these specialized appointments. Don’t miss episode 15, a quick 5-minute segment, for a helpful list of five questions to ask your provider during your visit!

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. Dr. Tim Aksamit, Medical Director of the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association, discusses how many individuals with COPD may also have overlapping conditions such as bronchiectasis and NTM. This episode highlights the challenges of early detection, discusses the prevalence of COPD-bronchiectasis overlap syndrome, and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and effective communication with your health care team.

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. Explore the role of supplemental oxygen for millions of individuals managing chronic lung conditions. Join us as we interview Mike Hess, Senior Director of Advocacy and Regulatory Affairs for the COPD Foundation, registered respiratory therapist and expert on oxygen therapy. Mike shares practical tips on recognizing when you might need oxygen, how to monitor your levels at home, and discusses how advocacy and legislation can help improve access for all.

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. In this special episode in celebration of World NTM Day, we explore traveling with NTM lung disease. Join us as we speak with John Torrence, a seasoned traveler and patient ambassador for Bronchiectasis and NTM Association, and Nancy, who is eager to explore the world again after her diagnosis. They share valuable tips on travel planning, water safety, destination choices, and overcoming fears. Whether you're planning a quick trip or a longer adventure, gain practical advice to travel confidently and safely.

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. Katelynn Schneider, Pulmonary Nurse Practitioner and patient advocate, offers practical advice on how to prepare for medical appointments, improve communication with healthcare providers, and how to ask the right questions to make the most of your visits.

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. Dr. Tim Aksamit, Medical Director of Bronchiectasis and NTM Association, joins us to discuss bronchiectasis and NTM exacerbations. He will answer the top 5 questions from the BronchandNTM360social community about exacerbations. This episode will help you understand how to know when symptoms flare, how the environment can affect your breathing, ways to track your symptoms, and much more.

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. In this special episode, we celebrate Pulmonary Rehab Week (March 9-15) by exploring the role of pulmonary rehabilitation in managing lung conditions. Join Christina Hunt, Senior Director of Bronchiectasis and NTM Education and Care Delivery, and Jonnie Korinko, Manager of Public and Professional Education at the COPD Foundation. Together, we will discuss how pulmonary rehabilitation differs from traditional exercise programs and the positive impact it can have on individuals with respiratory conditions. This episode is the first part of a two-part series. Check out the next episode on the COPD Foundation podcast channel, where we discuss the non-physical benefits of pulmonary rehab. Attention: Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 is now the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. The content provided in this podcast is up to date. 

To view/listen to this episode on YouTube, click here. Katie Keating, a passionate patient ambassador for Bronchiectasis and NTM 360, joins us to share her inspiring journey and offers valuable insights on mental health and stress management techniques to face the challenges of living with bronchiectasis. Attention: Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 is now the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. The content provided in this podcast is up to date. 

To view/watch this episode on YouTube, click here. Dr. Tim Aksamit, Medical Director of Bronchiectasis and NTM 360, joins us to continue discussing treatment. He explains the importance of addressing the underlying causes of bronchiectasis, managing exacerbations, quitting smoking, and maintaining good communication with your health care provider. Attention: Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 is now the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. The content provided in this podcast is up to date. 

To view/watch this episode on YouTube, click here. Dr. Asksamit, Medical Director of Bronchiectasis and NTM 360, joins us to discuss treatment options, effective exercise, and a new personalized tool to enhance communication with your healthcare provider and track your symptoms. Attention: Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 is now the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. The content provided in this podcast is up to date. 

To view/watch this episode on YouTube, click here. John Torrence, a Patient Ambassador for Bronchiectasis and NTM 360, shares his personal journey of discovering his diagnosis of bronchiectasis and NTM lung conditions. In this discussion, we explore the importance of testing, the critical role of family history, and the significance of asking questions. Whether you are a patient, caregiver, or simply interested in learning more about lung health, this episode offers valuable insights on how proper testing can lead to effective treatment and better health outcomes. Attention: Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 is now the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. The content provided in this podcast is up to date. 

To view/watch this episode on YouTube, click here. Christina Hunt, Senior Director of Bronchiectasis and NTM Education and Care Delivery joins us as we explore the growth of education surrounding bronchiectasis, how to educate family and friends, and raise awareness. Attention: Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 is now the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. The content provided in this podcast is up to date. 

To view/watch this episode on YouTube, click here. Dr. Asksamit, Medical Director of Bronchiectasis and NTM 360, discusses the vicious cycle of inflammation and mucus.   Attention: Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 is now the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. The content provided in this podcast is up to date. 

To view/watch this episode on YouTube, click here. Dr. Timothy Aksamit, medical director of Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 discusses who is at risk of developing NTM lung disease, summer care, high-risk activities and how to keep yourself safe.   Attention: Bronchiectasis and NTM 360 is now the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association. The content provided in this podcast is up to date.