World Lung Day, 25 September

24 Sept. 2024.  Seven million deaths annually are attributed to air pollution-related illnesses like COPD, lung cancer and respiratory infections.  The APSR calls on global leaders to intensify efforts to combat air pollution, a leading cause of lung disease and death worldwide.

World Lung Day (Wednesday, 25 September) is organized by the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS), of which the APSR  is a founding member. This year’s theme, “Clean Air and Healthy Lungs for All,” highlights the critical link between air quality and lung health.

Toxic air is a universal threat, impacting everyone from infants to older people. Exposure can shorten lives, damage lungs, exacerbate asthma, and lead to chronic respiratory diseases.

An alarming 99 percent of the global population breathes air exceeding World Health Organization  guideline limits, with low- and middle-income countries disproportionately affected.

M. Patricia Rivera MD, president of FIRS and immediate past-president of the American Thoracic Society, emphasizes the profound impact of climate change on public health: 
“Rising air pollution and ground-level ozone, linked to greenhouse gas emissions, are diminishing lung function, increasing hospitalizations for respiratory diseases, and elevating the risk of lung cancer. 

“We must intensify efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to combat the health risks and mortality linked to air pollution worldwide.”

Climate change is a major driver of air pollution. As the earth warms, weather patterns become disrupted leading to increased wildfires, dust storms and stagnant air masses that trap pollutants closer to the ground. This rise in air pollution is having an impact on lung health. Children, older adults, and people with existing respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable to its effects. Climate change is also linked to the spread of infectious diseases, such as pneumonia, which can further compromise lung health.

FIRS calls on governments and healthcare providers worldwide to prioritize reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This critical step will improve air quality, protect lung health, and save lives.