Missing data in IPF trials: do not let methodological issues undermine a major therapeutic breakthrough

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, progressive disorder associated with a poor prognosis. Until recently, there has been limited evidence that any drug could alter the course of the disease [1]. However, thanks to worldwide cooperative efforts, large randomised controlled trials have recently demonstrated the efficacy of pirfenidone and nintedanib in slowing down the course of IPF [2–4]. After decades of disappointing results in a number of clinical trials, these robust, groundbreaking studies now give patients with IPF the choice of safe and effective therapeutic options. Missing data will not disappear in future IPF (and not only IPF) trials <http://ow.ly/PijJo>