#United States
#Washington, D.C.
#American Lung Association
#Chronic Lung Disease
#Respiratory Advocacy Day
Advocates Rally in Washington to Push for Lung Health Legislation
On September 24, the American Lung Association (ALA) will host its fourth annual Respiratory Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C., focusing on the urgent need for comprehensive support for those living with chronic lung diseases. This event brings together advocates from across the United States to share their stories with lawmakers, underscoring the pressing challenges faced by millions due to respiratory issues.
The ALA champions policies to improve access to supplemental oxygen through the proposed Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act. This legislation seeks not only to enhance the availability of supplemental oxygen under Medicare but also to secure $11.6 billion in funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This funding is crucial for programs that directly impact lung health, including robust support for Asthma Control Programs, initiatives targeting smoking cessation, and essential immunization efforts.
Recent events, such as increased wildfires leading to hazardous smoke, have drawn attention to the vulnerabilities of individuals with chronic lung conditions. Additionally, two of the worst flu seasons in recent memory and a startling surge in U.S. measles cases underscore the critical needs of the 35 million people living with chronic lung diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis.
Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, articulated the significance of sharing personal narratives. He stated, "These stories help illustrate the daily battles over 35 million Americans face due to chronic lung diseases." By bringing these experiences to the forefront, advocates aim to encourage lawmakers to recognize the urgency for transformative changes in lung health policy.
A representative voice at the event is Peter S. Berger, a Firefighter/Paramedic and Advocacy Chair of the ALA's South Florida Board. Having been diagnosed with COPD at just 32 from job-related exposure, he emphasizes the need for properly funded health programs to support those affected nationwide. "I am committed to advocating for lung health, relying on comprehensive funding and resources to improve our collective situations,” Berger stated.
In the United States, there are alarming statistics that highlight the prevalence of lung diseases: over 11.1 million individuals suffer from COPD, while nearly 28 million grapple with asthma—4.8 million of whom are children. Furthermore, 80,000 people are diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. The need for sustained public health initiatives to combat these conditions and ensure access to affordable healthcare and supplemental oxygen is critical.
During Respiratory Advocacy Day, participants will not only engage with lawmakers but also take part in training sessions aimed at enhancing their advocacy skills. They will have opportunities to connect with other advocates and partners working in the lung health space.
Potential advocates and stakeholders are encouraged to learn more about how they can contribute to this important cause. More information on Respiratory Advocacy Day can be found at Lung.org/rad.
The American Lung Association is the premier organization focused on saving lives through improved lung health and the prevention of lung disease via education, advocacy, and research. It prioritizes critical goals, including defeating lung cancer, championing clean air, enhancing the quality of life for those with lung diseases, and working toward a tobacco-free future. The ALA has received high marks with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member. To support the organization's mission or to find upcoming events, visit Lung.org/events or call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872).
The ALA champions policies to improve access to supplemental oxygen through the proposed Supplemental Oxygen Access Reform (SOAR) Act. This legislation seeks not only to enhance the availability of supplemental oxygen under Medicare but also to secure $11.6 billion in funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This funding is crucial for programs that directly impact lung health, including robust support for Asthma Control Programs, initiatives targeting smoking cessation, and essential immunization efforts.
Recent events, such as increased wildfires leading to hazardous smoke, have drawn attention to the vulnerabilities of individuals with chronic lung conditions. Additionally, two of the worst flu seasons in recent memory and a startling surge in U.S. measles cases underscore the critical needs of the 35 million people living with chronic lung diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pulmonary fibrosis.
Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association, articulated the significance of sharing personal narratives. He stated, "These stories help illustrate the daily battles over 35 million Americans face due to chronic lung diseases." By bringing these experiences to the forefront, advocates aim to encourage lawmakers to recognize the urgency for transformative changes in lung health policy.
A representative voice at the event is Peter S. Berger, a Firefighter/Paramedic and Advocacy Chair of the ALA's South Florida Board. Having been diagnosed with COPD at just 32 from job-related exposure, he emphasizes the need for properly funded health programs to support those affected nationwide. "I am committed to advocating for lung health, relying on comprehensive funding and resources to improve our collective situations,” Berger stated.
In the United States, there are alarming statistics that highlight the prevalence of lung diseases: over 11.1 million individuals suffer from COPD, while nearly 28 million grapple with asthma—4.8 million of whom are children. Furthermore, 80,000 people are diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. The need for sustained public health initiatives to combat these conditions and ensure access to affordable healthcare and supplemental oxygen is critical.
During Respiratory Advocacy Day, participants will not only engage with lawmakers but also take part in training sessions aimed at enhancing their advocacy skills. They will have opportunities to connect with other advocates and partners working in the lung health space.
Potential advocates and stakeholders are encouraged to learn more about how they can contribute to this important cause. More information on Respiratory Advocacy Day can be found at Lung.org/rad.
About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the premier organization focused on saving lives through improved lung health and the prevention of lung disease via education, advocacy, and research. It prioritizes critical goals, including defeating lung cancer, championing clean air, enhancing the quality of life for those with lung diseases, and working toward a tobacco-free future. The ALA has received high marks with a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member. To support the organization's mission or to find upcoming events, visit Lung.org/events or call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872).
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