American Lung Association is the oldest nationwide voluntary public health agency in the United States. The agency was founded in 1904 to combat tuberculosis. Today, the association and its state and local affiliates work to control and prevent all lung diseases. The association and its affiliates also work to combat some of the related causes of breathing problems, including smoking, air pollution, and occupational lung hazards.
The agency provides public health education programs and materials on such diseases as lung cancer, emphysema, asthma, pneumonia, influenza, tuberculosis, and lung disorders in infants. It supports medical research and awards grants to encourage young medical professionals to specialize in lung health. The work of the association is funded in part by public contributions to its annual Christmas Seal Campaign. Headquarters of the American Lung Association are in Washington, D.C.
