TOP NEWS
New National Survey: Only 33% of People Know About Lifesaving Lung Cancer Screening
This month, we released our 2026 Lung Health Barometer, a biennial national survey of 4,000 adults providing a critical look at public awareness and perceptions related to lung cancer. The report revealed that 38% of survey respondents are concerned they may develop lung cancer in their lifetime, and just 33% are aware of lung cancer screening. The data highlights a significant gap between what people know about lung cancer and the actions they take to prevent it. The Barometer provides a valuable roadmap to help save more lives, as greater awareness of lung cancer drives greater research funding and screening.
Take Action: FDA Authorizes 4 New Flavored Nicotine Pouches
Earlier this month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized four new flavored nicotine pouches, including berry, cappuccino and autumn spice. The decision brings the total number of FDA-authorized nicotine pouches to 30. Nicotine pouches are now the second most used tobacco product among young people, and more than 90% of youth who use nicotine pouches use flavored products. Please sign our petition urging the FDA to reverse these authorizations and keep flavored tobacco products off the market.
Respiratory Season is Fast Approaching: The Importance of Staying Up to Date on Immunizations
August is Immunization Awareness Month, and we’re highlighting the importance of staying up to date on recommended vaccines at every stage of life. Vaccines are essential in providing protection against severe respiratory illness, particularly among older adults and those with chronic medical conditions or weakened immune systems. The Lung Association offers a variety of science-based educational resources to help individuals better understand vaccines and feel confident making informed decisions to protect themselves and others. As respiratory virus season approaches, talk with your healthcare provider about the vaccinations that are recommended for you. Learn more.
- From Asthma to Tobacco, the Lung Association Helps Schools Create Healthier Learning Environments. Read more about our Back-to-School Resources.
- Read our new blog, “How to Stay Health on Campus this Respiratory Season.”
EVENTS
Join the American Lung Association’s Marathon Team Around the World
The American Lung Association is offering endurance athletes the opportunity to make an impact on lung health and clean air while participating in premier marathons around the world. The Lung Association’s “Powered by Lungs Race Team” has bibs available for three 2026 marathons:
- BMW Berlin Marathon on Sunday, September 27 – Try for your personal best on the fastest course in the world.
- Irish Life Dublin Marathon on Sunday, October 25 – Ireland’s capital buzzes with energy as 25,000 participants weave their way through its iconic landmarks and historic streets.
- JAL Honolulu Marathon on Sunday, December 13 – This beachfront race is the epitome of “Aloha spirit,” known for being welcoming and inclusive with no time limit.
Limited bibs are also available for the Tokyo Marathon on March 7, 2027.
Fall LUNG FORCE Walks and Run/Walks Kick-off in September
Walk, run, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery and vibrant colors at iconic locations across the country, all while supporting lung cancer research and vital education and support programs. Our Fall LUNG FORCE Walks and Walks/Runs start next month:
- LUNG FORCE Walk Chicago presented by Northwestern Medicine: Chicago, Illinois – Cantigny Park on Sunday, September 13. Register here.
- LUNG FORCE Walk New Jersey: Bridgewater, New Jersey – TD Bank Ballpark on Saturday, September 26. Register here.
- LUNG FORCE Walk Cleveland presented by Cleveland Clinic: Cleveland, Ohio – Cleveland Metroparks Zoo on Sunday, September 27. Register here.
- LUNG FORCE Run/Walk Charlston: Charleston, South Carolina – The Dunes House at Folly Beach on Saturday, October 17. Register here.
- LUNG FORCE Walk Long Island: East Meadow, New York – Eisenhower Park on Saturday, October 24. Register here.
RESEARCH
Lung Association Now Accepting Research Awards Applications
The American Lung Association Research Institute is proud to announce the opening of the 2027-2028 Research Awards and Grants cycle, supporting innovative lung health research and the next generation of scientific leaders. As the research funding landscape continues to evolve, the Lung Association remains committed to investing in the discoveries that will improve and save lives. Please share this funding opportunity with researchers in your network who may be interested in applying. Learn more.
Our Funded Research: Getting SMART About Asthma Care
New research published in Pediatrics identified key barriers preventing broader use of single maintenance and reliever therapy (SMART), a guideline-recommended asthma treatment, in pediatric primary care. Researchers found that while clinicians widely recognize SMART's benefits, insurance hurdles, workflow challenges, limited SMART-specific asthma action plans and caregiver resistance continue to slow adoption of the treatment. The findings highlight opportunities to improve implementation through electronic health record tools, practice support and patient education. This work was partially supported by the Lung Association’s Public Health and Policy Research Award granted to James Krings, MD, MSc of Washington University in St. Louis.
YOUR HEALTH
New Initiative Helps Bronx Residents with Lung Disease Amid Rising Air Pollution
We recently announced the expansion of our national clean air initiative, supported by a $3.5 million, four-year investment from the CVS Health Foundation, to help individuals living with chronic lung disease in the Bronx. Amid worsening air pollution, leading health systems, including SBH Health System, BronxCare Health System and NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, have partnered with us to raise awareness and provide education about the impact of poor air quality on lung health. In addition, community partners such as Health People, Urban Health Plan and Bronx Independent Living are helping expand outreach and education.
The Truth About “Tobacco-Free” Pouches and Vapes: Why They’re Still Addictive and Risky
The gaining popularity of nicotine pouches and vapes that claim to be "tobacco free" reflects the latest marketing tactics by tobacco companies. However, what consumers fail to realize is that tobacco-free products are far from safe. In fact, studies show that when products are marketed as tobacco free, youth are much more likely to choose and use these products as they are no longer perceived as harmful. Read more.
What Parents Need to Know About Long COVID in Kids
Long COVID can occur in people of all ages including children. Though symptoms can vary, children who have Long COVID may experience ongoing symptoms and functional limitations, including chronic absenteeism from school. In a new blog, Uzma Hasan, MD, Regional Director of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Barnabas Health Medical Group, explains the signs and symptoms of Long COVID in children. She emphasizes that staying up to date on COVID-19 immunizations is the best way to prevent children and families from the infection that may lead to Long COVID.
ADVOCACY
Vaccine Executive Order 'Undermines' Child Health
On Monday, the White House issued an executive order regarding childhood immunizations that “undermines the evidence-based childhood immunization recommendations that keep children and communities healthy, including the flu shot recommendation for children,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the Lung Association, in a statement. “Children, teachers and school staff are heading back to the classrooms for the new school year. Now is not the time to undercut childhood immunization recommendations.”
A Win for Clean Air: Court Orders EPA to Implement National Soot Standards
A U.S. court has ordered the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implement the 2024 National Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine particulate matter, commonly known as soot. It’s a major victory for the Lung Association and other leading health and environmental groups that challenged the agency’s proposed delay in enforcing the standards in court. “Implementing this stronger annual particle pollution standard, as the Clean Air Act requires, will mean fewer asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes and deaths”, said Harold Wimmer, president and CEO of the Lung Association, in a statement.
EACH BREATH BLOG
Baker's Asthma: How Baking Can Impact Lung Health
Few realize that repeated exposure to flour and baking ingredients can pose a serious health risk, including respiratory issues. Called baker’s lung or baker’s asthma, the condition affects between 7% and 15% of bakers. Our new blog highlights who’s at risk for baker’s lung, potential symptoms, and ways to prevent or control the condition. Read more.
Blog last updated: August 14, 2026
