IPF is a serious disease that causes scarring (fibrosis) of the lungs. Over time, this scarring makes the lungs stiff and less efficient at supplying oxygen to the body. The word “idiopathic” means we don’t know exactly what causes it, and “fibrosis” refers to the scarring itself.

Renowned musician Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away due to complications from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis on Sunday night. He was hospitalized in San Francisco for two weeks before his condition worsened.

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, the condition that led to the death of tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, is an extremely debilitating disease -- a virtual death sentence. The only definitive cure is lung transplant and that too if done at the right time.