American Thoracic Society (ATS)
The American Thoracic Society (ATS) is a professional medical society of physicians and other health professionals who are dedicated to improving the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of respiratory diseases around the world. Founded in 1905, ATS has become one of the largest thoracic specialty organizations in the world with more than 15,000 members from over 80 countries. The organization strives to advance research, patient care and public health by promoting excellence in clinical practice guidelines; facilitating communication and collaboration among clinicians working on lung health; providing education for researchers, clinicians and students alike; advocating for improved access to healthcare services; offering support networks for patients living with chronic disease or disability; and acting as a catalyst for global change through its involvement in local, regional and international initiatives.
The American Thoracic Society not only plays an active role in advancing scientific knowledge but also provides leadership within the field of pulmonary medicine through its annual International Conference which brings together some of the best minds from across disciplines including pulmonologists, allergists/immunologists, critical care specialists as well as scientists from academia, industry and government institutions. This conference allows attendees to learn about new developments regarding airway management techniques that can be applied clinically while networking with colleagues at all levels – beginning investigators up through established experts. Additionally, ATS publishes two peer-reviewed journals: American Journal of Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine (AJRCCM), which is devoted exclusively to respiratory sciences issues since 1974; American Journal of Respiratory Cell & Molecular Biology (AJRCMB), covering current topics related to molecular biology since 1995.
In addition to organizing conferences such as these throughout each year along with publishing highly respected journals within their field ,the ATS also offers several awards annually recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions towards their mission statement – “To improve lives by improving lung health” . One example would be their Distinguished Scientist Award which honors senior members whose career achievements exemplify excellence within pulmonary medicine or sleep science ; another being their Outstanding Mentor Award presented annually during conferences honoring those long-term mentors who have had tremendous impact on inspiring future generations interested in furthering lung disease research .
Finally , it should be noted that although most activities are geared towards academic advancement , many programs initiated by the ATS provide financial assistance for those less fortunate suffering from extreme cases of asthma or COPD among other conditions . By partnering specifically with different foundations such as Breathing For Life© Foundation they strive directly towards this goal creating opportunities previously unavailable helping millions around our globe breathe easier both figuratively speaking via awareness campaigns but literally speaking financially contributing where needed making strides against debilitating illnesses effecting lungs everywhere !