American Lung Association Expands School Health Initiatives for 2026-2027 Academic Year — American Lung Association

Event summary

American Lung Association launches 'Lung Friendly Schools' initiative to address asthma, tobacco use, and respiratory illnesses in schools.
6.1 million children under 18 in the U.S. live with asthma, a leading cause of missed school days.
Organization advocates for increased funding for CDC's National Asthma Control Program (NACP).
Resources include asthma management programs, tobacco cessation tools, and vaccination guidance.

The big picture

The American Lung Association's school health initiatives align with growing concerns over childhood respiratory conditions and the long-term impacts of tobacco use. With asthma affecting millions of U.S. children, the organization's advocacy for policy changes and resource distribution positions it as a key player in shaping school health standards. The success of these programs could influence future public health funding priorities.

What we're watching

Funding Advocacy: Whether Congress will increase funding for the CDC's National Asthma Control Program to expand its reach.
Program Adoption: The pace at which schools implement the Lung Association's 'Lung Friendly Schools' resources and policies.
Youth Health Trends: How effectively the initiative reduces asthma-related absences and tobacco use among students.