American Lung Association



The American Lung Association (ALA) is a non-profit organization that "fights lung disease in all its forms, with special emphasis on asthma, tobacco control and environmental health". It was founded in 1904 to fight tuberculosis as the National Association for the Study and Prevention of Tuberculosis. Other names were National Tuberculosis Association (NTA) (1918) and National Tuberculosis and Respiratory Disease Association (1968). Its name was changed to the American Lung Association in 1973.

A modified version of the Cross of Lorraine serves as a logo for the Lung Association. Its use was suggested in 1902 by Paris physician Gilbert Sersiron as a symbol for the "crusade" against tuberculosis.

The American Lung Association is funded by contributions from the public, along with gifts and grants from corporations, foundations and government agencies. The American Lung Association achieves its many successes through the work of thousands of committed volunteers and staff.

The President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Lung Association is Bernadette A. Toomey.

Christmas Seals has been an annual fundraising and public awareness program for tuberculosus and lung disease since 1908.