Allergy & Asthma Network to Showcase Research at ATS 2026
The Allergy & Asthma Network, a prominent nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by asthma and allergies, is set to feature innovative patient-centered research at the upcoming American Thoracic Society (ATS) 2026 International Conference. This important event will take place from May 15 to 20 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
As a recognized advocacy group with a focus on respiratory and allergic issues, the organization aims to influence critical discussions surrounding equitable healthcare, environmental impacts, and the significance of patient involvement in both research and policy-making. Throughout the conference, top leaders and researchers affiliated with the Allergy & Asthma Network will be present to engage in conversations about pressing topics in respiratory health, including the disparities in asthma treatment and the vital contributions of patient experiences to scientific inquiry and clinical practice.
One of the conference highlights will be a presentation by Dr. De De Gardner, Chief Research Programs Officer at the Allergy & Asthma Network, along with Data Insights and Analytics Manager Mitu Patel. They will discuss their findings on air pollution and asthma disparities in Orange County, utilizing the Asthma Equity Explorer Tool. This presentation is set for May 17, from 2:15 PM to 4:15 PM ET and aims to illuminate the connections between environmental factors and health outcomes in the community.
Recognizing Milestones in Patient Advocacy
In addition to its research initiatives, the Allergy & Asthma Network is proud to participate in the celebration of the ATS Public Advisory Roundtable (PAR), which is commemorating its 25th anniversary this year. The conference will also mark 20 years since the inception of the Patients & Experts Forum, a significant event for fostering dialogue among patients, healthcare professionals, and researchers. Scheduled for May 16 at 10 AM ET, this forum aims to enhance patient-centered education and engagement among those unable to attend in person.
The Allergy & Asthma Network's dedication to advancing collaborative respiratory health initiatives is further evidenced by its sponsorship of the 2026 ATS PAR Student Scholarship. This award will be presented during the PAR Abstract Reception on May 17 from 6 PM to 9 PM ET, recognizing the outstanding achievements of Patricia Andrea Dela Cruz, MD, Ph.D., this year's awardee.
Opportunities for Media Engagement
For journalists and media professionals attending the ATS 2026 conference, the Allergy & Asthma Network offers opportunities for interviews and discussions. Topics available for coverage include:
- - Advances in patient-centered research and its implications for health equity
- - Air quality issues related to asthma disparities and available community-level data tools
- - The evolving landscape of patient engagement in respiratory health
Media members are encouraged to connect with representatives of the Allergy & Asthma Network to schedule interviews or background discussions leading up to or during the conference, emphasizing the importance of highlighting patient narratives in the discourse surrounding respiratory health issues.
About Allergy & Asthma Network
Founded in 1985, the Allergy & Asthma Network has established itself as the foremost nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals living with asthma, allergies, and related health conditions. Its mission encompasses a wide array of educational and advocacy initiatives aimed at improving healthcare outcomes and access, fostering better treatment options, and enhancing the overall quality of life for patients. The organization focuses on translating complex medical information into accessible formats for patients, while promoting evidence-based care and collaboration among stakeholders in the health community. To gain further insights into their work, visit
AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org.