Most chronic respiratory diseases, especially chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer, should be rare since they are largely preventable. However, inadequate control of tobacco and air pollution means they continue to be a highly prevalent global health burden. Learn more about the most common chronic respiratory diseases and the ways to prevent them.

Air pollution is the world’s largest single environmental health risk, with over 90% of the global population living with unsafe levels of air pollution. It is estimated to cause at least 7 million deaths every year worldwide, with some estimates ranging much higher, and 80% of these deaths are due to NCDs.

World Lung Day is a campaign for lung health advocacy and action, promoting Lung Health for All. This year, it aims to raise awareness on the global burden of major respiratory diseases and the impact of COVID-19, with a focus on lower- and middle-income countries.

World Lung Day (WLD) toolkit now available! WLD - 25 September, is a day for lung health advocacy and action, an opportunity for us all to unite and promote better lung health globally.

The Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) encourages organisations to speak with a unified voice on lung health to mark World Lung Day.