Support Our LUNG FORCE Heroes on April 9
For the 10 Heroes—those personally affected by lung cancer—will travel from across the country to Washington, D.C., to share their stories with members of Congress. They will advocate for protecting lifesaving research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), critical public health prevention and protections at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Medicaid health coverage. This year is more important than ever as proposed federal cuts and policy changes threaten essential health programs and benefits. year, our LUNG FORCE Heroes—those personally affected by lung cancer—will travel from across the country to Washington, D.C., to share their stories with members of Congress. They will advocate for protecting lifesaving research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), critical public health prevention and protections at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Medicaid health coverage. This year is more important than ever as proposed federal cuts and policy changes threaten essential health programs and benefits.
The American Lung Association’s LUNG FORCE Advocacy Day will be held on April 9. On that day, please support our Heroes by visiting our website and contacting your Congressional representatives by phone, email or via social media to express your support for our Heroes and these vital, lifesaving programs.
New Report Highlights Strategies for Reducing Hazardous Nitrogen Dioxide Pollution
We recently released a report exploring the use of satellite data to assess and reduce the impact of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a widespread air pollutant typically found in high levels near major highways and industrial facilities. This pollutant, which causes orange smog, is more prevalent in low-income communities and communities of color and is particularly dangerous to individuals living with lung disease. Better monitoring would provide critical data to support stronger NO2 regulations and protections in these communities.
- Read our new report “Something in the Air: Nitrogen Dioxide and Community Health”
- Take action now to safeguard clean air protections
SUPPORT THE LUNG ASSOCIATION
Calling All Marathon Runners: Join Us in Sydney!
You can make an impact on lung health and clean air while pursuing your passion in the beautiful city of Sydney, Australia. We have a few remaining American Lung Association bibs for the 2025 Sydney Marathon on Sunday, August 31. Support the American Lung Association: apply to be a Charity Place Runner in Sydney or make a donation. Read more.
RESEARCH UPDATE
Lung Association Expands Funding for Universal Flu Shot Research
The American Lung Association Research Institute recently announced an additional $200,000 grant to Texas Biomedical Research Institute for the continued development of a universal influenza (flu) vaccine to help protect people from continually evolving strains of this common respiratory illness. Luis Martinez-Sobrido, PhD, is leading the project, which aims to combine multiple influenza virus strains in one vaccine, promoting a broader and more robust immune response. While cases of the flu have been rising nationwide, only 45% of adults got a flu shot last year. “The possibility of a universal flu shot could help protect more people from the changing flu strains,” explained Lung Association president and CEO Harold Wimmer. Read more.
ADVOCACY
Help Us Protect Medicaid by Sharing Your Story
Medicaid is a lifeline for people living with lung disease and at risk for lung disease. Approximately one-quarter of people with lung cancer rely on Medicaid for their health coverage, and Medicaid enrollees living with asthma—who have higher rates of the chronic disease than people who have private insurance—need coverage to ensure lifesaving treatment and care. Unfortunately, Congress is poised to make harmful cuts and policy changes to the program, resulting in the loss of healthcare coverage for millions of people. To help us continue to advocate for sustained Medicaid funding, we would love to hear and share your story on how Medicaid is helping you to manage your lung condition. If you have a story to tell, please fill out this form and we will contact you for more information. And if you haven’t had a chance, please tell Congress to Protect Medicaid.
Lung Association Sponsors Climate Convention and Advocacy Day in Washington
The Lung Association recently sponsored the Our Planet, Our Health: 2025 Climate Action Convention conference in Washington, D.C., a pivotal gathering of leaders, experts and educators committed to driving progress toward a healthier, more sustainable and just future. Following the Convention, the Lung Association led an advocacy day in partnership with the Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health and Physicians for Social Responsibility, with nearly 100 health professionals heading to Capitol Hill to educate members of Congress on the benefits of climate investments.
EACH BREATH BLOG
Tragedy Inspires Teen to Advocate for a Tobacco-free Future
Amyrah Moumouni-Snyder is a Harrisburg, Pennsylvania-area high school student who lost her mother to lung cancer when she was just 14. Today, Amyrah is a TRU (Tobacco Resistance United) ambassador, helping to educate her friends and peers about the dangers of smoking, vaping and tobacco use. TRU is a Pennsylvania statewide coalition that brings together students, ages 12-18, who “are passionate about stopping the lies of Big Tobacco companies and creating a tobacco-free future.” Lung Association staff oversee the program and provide a variety of resources. Amyrah says the program allows her “to share her passionate views on smoking while also honoring her late mother.” Read Amyrah’s story.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
For over 120 years, we have been dedicated to making a difference and saving lives. Our efforts impact the more than 35 million people living in the U.S. with chronic lung disease, and millions more through our pioneering model of education, advocacy and research. Thank you for all you do to help us all breathe easier! Visit Lung.org/get-involved to learn more about how you can make a difference.
Blog last updated: March 17, 2025
