The impact of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis versus asbestosis on access to asbestos-related government benefits

For people exposed to asbestos in the past, understanding the type of pulmonary fibrosis they have is especially important, not just for their health, but also for accessing state benefits that can make a real difference to daily life.

This article explains the difference between idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and asbestosis, why the distinction can be difficult for doctors to make, and how it can affect applications for benefits such as Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB).

What is pulmonary fibrosis?

Pulmonary fibrosis is a long‑term lung condition where the lung tissue becomes thickened and scarred. Over time, this scarring can lead to breathlessness and increasing difficulty with everyday tasks.

There are many possible causes of pulmonary fibrosis. These include:

• previous infections
• autoimmune conditions
• exposure to harmful dusts, such as asbestos. 

Where the fibrosis is linked to asbestos exposure, it is referred to as asbestosis.

When the cause cannot or has yet to be identified, the condition is called idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Although the symptoms can look very similar, identifying the underlying cause of the fibrosis is important because it can influence both treatment options and entitlement to asbestos‑related government benefits.

IPF vs asbestosis: Why the difference isn’t always easy to spot

In the early stages, IPF and asbestosis can appear almost identical on scans. For this reason, clinicians don't rely on images alone. Instead, they look at the whole picture, including:

• radiological patterns
• medical history
• occupational and asbestos exposure history
• the pace of deterioration and symptoms

A person’s work history is often the key to understanding whether asbestos exposure may be responsible. Even then, it's not always possible to make an immediate diagnosis.

In some cases, doctors will adopt a period of “watchful waiting”, monitoring the condition over time to see how quickly it progresses as IPF often worsens more rapidly, while asbestosis tends to progress more slowly. 

The cause of the fibrosis matters as not only can it affect the recommended treatment plan and available medications, but it can also affect whether the patient is able to apply for certain government benefits. 

Why a diagnosis of asbestosis matters for DWP claims

People diagnosed with an asbestos‑related disease such as asbestosis may be entitled to certain state benefits intended to support them as their condition progresses. The two most common are:

• Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB): A weekly payment for people whose illness was caused by exposure to harmful substances at work.

• Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers’ Compensation) Act 1979: A one‑off lump sum payment for people diagnosed with specific dust‑related diseases, including asbestosis.

In my work supporting those affected by asbestos exposure, I often seen how important these benefits are and the difference that they can make to people at a difficult time of their lives.  These benefits can help cover:

• loss of income if work becomes difficult or impossible
• heating costs
• travel expenses for hospital appointments
• mobility aids or home adaptations
• everyday living costs

For many people, they provide reassurance, stability and improved quality of life at a difficult time.

However, individuals diagnosed with IPF aren't eligible for IIDB because the scheme only applies to diseases proven to be caused by work‑related exposure, such as asbestosis. This means that people who are still awaiting confirmation of whether their fibrosis is asbestos‑related may be unable to apply for financial support when they most need it.

Unfortunately, the DWP will only backdate IIDB payments for 13 weeks, meaning that the individual may have missed out on essential financial support they could otherwise have received. 

Conclusion

Pulmonary fibrosis is a complex condition, and for people with a history of asbestos exposure, understanding whether their illness is caused by asbestos can have a significant impact on the support available to them. 

Receiving a diagnosis of asbestosis therefore matters not only from a medical perspective, but also for the support and options it can unlock for the individuals.  

If you or a family member has been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis and have had past asbestos exposure, seeking advice from a benefits advisor at your local asbestos charity group or from a solicitor that specialises in asbestos-related diseases early can help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the guidance and benefits you may be entitled to.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting people affected by asbestos exposure at our dedicated asbestos compensation claims section.