A new review has confirmed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are disproportionately affected by bronchiectasis, a condition where airways are damaged and widened, leading to chronic cough and chest infections.

The Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet published the new Review of bronchiectasis among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people (0-18 years old) this week, authored by Professor André Schultz and Professor Anne Bernadette Chang.

Professor Schultz said the timely diagnosis and optimal management of bronchiectasis and its precursors in children, which can potentially prevent a lifetime of chronic disease, can be achieved through "comprehensively addressing risk factors, and the provision of guidelines-based, culturally secure health care".

The review recommends there should be "true partnerships" between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, experts (in paediatric respiratory health, environmental health, public health, the social determinants of disease and smoking cessation), government institutions and other institutions.

Professor Chang said "Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people-led-and-administered health services and initiatives must be given priority".

HealthInfoNet Director, Noongar academic Professor Bep Uink, said the new review is timely and highlights the importance of addressing respiratory disease early to avoid long-term health issues.

"We are grateful to the authors for this valuable review and to our partner organisation Lung Foundation Australia who made the review available at the 8th World Bronchiectasis Conference 14-17th July 2025 which they were hosting," she said.

The world conference brought together healthcare professionals, researchers and patients from around the globe to advance the understanding and treatment of bronchiectasis.