Blog

What Is the Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network?

This blog post was authored by Lucinda Shore and reviewed by the Bronchiectasis and NTM Content Review and Evaluation Committee.As bronchiectasis and nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease become more common in the U.S., getting a quick, accurate diagnosis and expert care is very important. To help meet this need, the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association created the Bronchiectasis and NTM Care Center Network (CCN).The CCN connects people to medical centers throughout the U.S. that provide expert care and treatment, high-quality education, advice, and support for those living with bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease. The CCN gives sites one of two designations:Care Center: These centers offer a clinical research program, treat hundreds of people with bronchiectasis and NTM, and provide direct access to specialists (like dietitians or psychologists) for immediate care.Clinical Associate Center (CAC): CACs provide high-quality, expert care, but may see fewer people with both conditions, may be less involved in research, and may not have access to specialists within the center.

Press Release

Bronchiectasis and NTM Association marks fourth annual World NTM Awareness Day

Miami (July 28, 2026) – The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association joins patient advocacy organizations, health care professionals, researchers, and lung health advocates around the world in recognizing the fourth annual World NTM Awareness Day on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

Discussion

National Immunization Month

🫁💙 August is National Immunization Month — a great reminder for people living with Bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease to talk with their healthcare team about staying up to date on recommended vaccines.Why does this matter?People with chronic lung conditions may be more vulnerable to respiratory infections, and infections can sometimes lead to increased coughing, mucus production, breathing difficulties, or a worsening of underlying lung disease. Protecting your lungs starts with prevention.Vaccines may help protect against certain infections, including:💉 Influenza (flu) — seasonal vaccination can help reduce the risk of flu and its complications.💉 COVID-19 — COVID-19 vaccination can help reduce the risk of severe illness.💉 Pneumococcal disease — vaccination can help protect against infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, including pneumonia.💉 RSV — certain adults, including some older adults and people with specific risk factors, may be eligible for RSV vaccination.Vaccine recommendations can vary based on your age, health conditions, previous vaccinations, and other individual factors. Your healthcare provider can help determine which vaccines are appropriate for you.Vaccinations are only one part of protecting your lungs. Airway clearance, good infection-prevention practices, regular medical care, and following your individualized Bronchiectasis/NTM treatment plan all play important roles too.🫁 Knowledge + prevention + proactive care = stronger lung health.💙