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.

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are bacteria commonly found in the environment, including in soil and natural and treated water. While exposure to NTM is common, people with bronchiectasis, chronic lung diseases, or weakened immune systems have a greater risk of developing NTM lung disease.

NTM lung disease causes a buildup of excess mucus in a person’s airways, which can cause widening and scarring that make it difficult to clear mucus. It is estimated that more than 200,000 people in the United States have NTM lung disease. That number is increasing approximately 8% every year.

World NTM Awareness Day, established by NTM Info & Research, is a global effort to raise awareness and improve education and access to care for those affected by NTM lung disease.

The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association provides trusted educational resources and support for individuals living with NTM lung disease and bronchiectasis, including downloadable fact sheets, disease management tools, a nationwide Care Center Network, and an active online community that connects people with others who understand their experiences.

For more information about World NTM Awareness Day, visit WorldNTMDay.org. For more information about NTM lung disease and bronchiectasis, visit BronchandNTM.org.

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About the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association

The Bronchiectasis and NTM Association is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the lives of people with bronchiectasis, nontuberculous mycobacterial lung (NTM) disease, or both conditions. The Association accomplishes this by providing education, supporting advocacy, furthering research, and advancing high-quality, specialized care. For more information, visit www.bronchandntmorg.

Contact:                         
Brittany Irish
805-465-2497
brittany@bronchandntm.org