Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has begun treatment for pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung condition that gradually damages lung tissue. The Norwegian Royal House confirmed on Friday that the 51-year-old Crown Princess has started her treatment immediately.
The Royal House explained that past experiences have shown the medications might cause side effects, which could affect her official duties.
“Therefore, we find it important to share this information. We will update on any changes to the official schedule if necessary,” they said.
The Crown Princess was diagnosed with this chronic lung disease in 2018. At the time, Mette-Marit acknowledged, “For several years, I have faced ongoing health challenges, and now we have a clearer understanding of the situation. This condition means my ability to work will fluctuate.
“The Crown Prince and I decided to make this public, as there will be times in the future when we will need to plan breaks from the official schedule for treatment and during flare-ups.”
Although pulmonary fibrosis is incurable and worsens over time, Professor Kristian Bjøro, her doctor at the National Hospital, has been monitoring her condition, stating, “The progression has been slow.”
He remains optimistic that collaboration with international medical teams and her involvement in treatment trials will help manage the disease.
What is Pulmonary Fibrosis?
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a serious condition where the lungs scar and make breathing progressively harder. The exact cause remains unknown, but it is most common in individuals aged 70 to 75, and rare in those under 50.
Symptoms include shortness of breath, a dry cough, extreme fatigue, unintended weight loss, and clubbing (the widening and rounding of finger or toe tips).
Though several treatments may slow the disease’s progression, there is no cure, and lung transplants may be required in severe cases.
