Primary immunodeficiency diseases (PI) are a group of more than 350 rare, chronic disorders in which part of the body's immune system is missing or functions improperly. There are approximately 250,000 people who are diagnosed with PI in the United States. People with PI can face frequent health problems and often develop serious and debilitating illnesses. Years ago, a diagnosis of a PI meant extremely compromised lives, not just for the patients but for their families as well. Today, with early diagnosis and appropriate therapies, many patients diagnosed with a PI can live healthy, productive lives. Listen as John Boyle, President and CEO of the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF), tells his story and describes the work of IDF.
Founded in 1980, IDF is the national nonprofit patient organization dedicated to improving the diagnosis, treatment and quality of life of persons with PI through advocacy, education and research.