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American Lung Association's Significant Investment in Lung Research

In a decisive move to bolster lung health initiatives, the American Lung Association (ALA) recently announced a substantial $22 million investment in research grants, clinical projects, and collaborations aimed at advancing the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of lung diseases. This initiative is particularly crucial in a year where federal support for scientific research has experienced notable declines, leaving a significant gap that needs to be filled.

Significant Support for Research and Innovation

The funding will benefit 130 researchers across the country, extending support through the Airways Clinical Research Centers (ACRC) Network and other strategic partnerships. The ALA's commitment comes at a time when the landscape of public health and scientific inquiry in the United States faces challenges due to budget cuts and structural changes within federal agencies overseeing research funding. Despite these hurdles, the ALA emerges as one of the largest nonprofit entities committed to financing life-saving lung research, effectively supporting scientists at various stages of their careers.

Voices from Leadership

Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the ALA, underscored the vital role of research by stating, "Research is the foundation for every breakthrough that improves lung health and saves lives." He expressed a firm commitment to continuing investment in innovative science and the researchers driving it, aiming to fill the critical void left by diminishing federal research funding. This investment brings hope to millions affected by chronic lung conditions.

Diverse Funding Streams and Awardees

For the funding cycle of 2025-2026, the ALA allocated grants across various programs that address diverse aspects of respiratory health. These efforts include:

• - American Lung Association/AAAII Allergic Respiratory Diseases Award
• - Innovation Award
• - Lung Cancer Discovery Award, among others.

The awards target crucial areas such as allergic respiratory diseases, health equity, and emerging respiratory pathogens, focusing on both old and new challenges in lung health.

Spotlight on Recent Projects

Highlighted projects under this funding include:

• - Lung Cancer Discovery Award awarded to Carla Concepcion, PhD from Columbia University. Her project explores ways to enhance SMARCA therapy, targeting aggressive lung cancers stemming from SMARCA4 mutations, aiming to improve patient outcomes.
• - Public Health and Public Policy Research Award goes to Stephen Mein, MD from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. His research investigates the impact of Medicare drug cost reductions on accessibility and use of inhalers among Black and Hispanic older adults with asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
• - Indoor Air Award recipient Alison G. Lee, MD from the Icahn School of Medicine is analyzing how prenatal exposure to indoor air pollutants may influence lung development in infants, leveraging data from a cohort study in Queens, New York.

A Rigorous Selection Process

Every funded project is vetted through a rigorous scientific peer-review process, ensuring support only reaches the most impactful and innovative research. Besides financing individual researchers, the ALA's Research Institute plays a crucial role in supporting the ACRC Network, noted as the country's largest nonprofit network focused specifically on asthma and COPD treatment research.

Next Steps for the Association

The American Lung Association is now welcoming applications for its upcoming 2026-2027 research awards and grant cycle. Additional details concerning current funding opportunities can be found on the ALA website. This ongoing commitment by the ALA not only emphasizes its leadership in lung health advocacy but showcases its determination to advance scientific understanding and improve the quality of life for millions suffering from lung diseases.

About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association stands at the forefront of efforts aimed at saving lives through education, advocacy, and research focused on improving lung health among individuals. With a strategic focus on lung cancer, clean air advocacy, and enhancing the quality of life for all affected by respiratory conditions, the ALA represents a beacon of hope for many. For more information and to support ongoing initiatives, visit Lung.org or reach out to the ALA via their contact information.

For further updates, the ALA encourages the public to engage with their initiatives and explore local events aimed at fostering community involvement in lung health matters.