Crystal M. North, MD, MPH, an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, has received the CHEST/ALA Guideline Implementation Research Grant for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Management. The grant is jointly awarded by the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) and the American Lung Association (ALA). Dr. North’s research focuses on how educational interventions can help reduce air pollution exposure among people at risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The grant provides $120,000 over two years and was established to mark the 120th anniversary of the American Lung Association. Its purpose is to fund innovative research that uses global data to address COPD, which remains a major cause of death worldwide.
COPD includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema and restricts airflow in the lungs. In the United States, tobacco use is the primary risk factor for COPD, but exposure to particulate matter—such as dust, smoke from tobacco or diesel engines, combustion exhaust, pollen, pet dander, and mold—also plays a significant role in worsening symptoms. Lower-income communities are especially vulnerable to these exposures. Although Dr. North works in Massachusetts, her study will analyze data from Uganda—a country with some of the highest air pollution levels globally—to find ways to prevent and lower COPD risk.
“This study will help develop guidelines for how people can protect themselves from air pollution and lower their risk of developing COPD, with a goal of helping people all over the world,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “This anniversary grant is a testament to our ongoing commitment to research that helps guide healthcare professionals and policy makers to provide optimal care to those living with COPD and other lung diseases. We are proud to partner with CHEST to support this vital work.”
“As pulmonary specialists, we see firsthand the toll that air pollution takes on people at risk for and living with COPD,” said John Howington, MD, MPH, FCCP, President of the American College of Chest Physicians. “We look forward to continuing this partnership with the American Lung Association and seeing the impact that Dr. North’s research will have on patient care.”
The American College of Chest Physicians serves more than 18,000 members worldwide who specialize in pulmonary medicine and related fields. More information about CHEST can be found at https://www.chestnet.org/. The American Lung Association continues its mission focused on defeating lung cancer; promoting clean air; improving quality of life for those affected by lung disease; and working toward a tobacco-free future. Additional details about its programs are available at https://www.lung.org/.
