American Thoracic Society

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  Logo of the American Thoracic Society

American Thoracic Society

The American Thoracic Society (ATS) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the clinical and scientific understanding of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. Founded in 1905, the ATS is committed to improving global health by advancing research, clinical care, and public health in respiratory diseases, critical illnesses, and sleep-related breathing disorders.

History

The ATS was originally established as the American Sanatorium Association, reflecting its early focus on tuberculosis and other respiratory diseases prevalent in the early 20th century. Over the years, the society expanded its scope to include a broader range of respiratory and critical care conditions, leading to its current name, adopted in 1960.

Mission and Goals

The mission of the ATS is to improve health worldwide by advancing research, clinical care, and public health in respiratory disease, critical illness, and sleep disorders. The society aims to:

• Promote the highest quality patient care.
• Advance the science of respiratory medicine through research and education.
• Advocate for policies that improve public health and respiratory care.
• Support the professional development of its members.

Membership

The ATS has a diverse membership that includes physicians, researchers, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals. Members are involved in various aspects of respiratory and critical care medicine, including clinical practice, research, education, and advocacy.

Annual Conference

The ATS hosts an annual international conference that is one of the largest gatherings of professionals in the field of respiratory medicine. The conference features scientific sessions, workshops, and presentations on the latest research and clinical practices in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine.

Publications

The ATS publishes several leading journals in the field of respiratory medicine, including:

• American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine
• American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology
• Annals of the American Thoracic Society

These publications provide a platform for disseminating cutting-edge research and clinical guidelines to the global medical community.

Advocacy and Public Health

The ATS is actively involved in advocacy efforts to influence public policy related to respiratory health. The society works to raise awareness about the impact of air pollution, tobacco use, and other environmental factors on respiratory health. It also advocates for increased funding for research and improved access to care for patients with respiratory diseases.

Education and Training

The ATS offers a variety of educational programs and resources for healthcare professionals, including continuing medical education (CME) courses, webinars, and workshops. These programs are designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of practitioners in the field of respiratory and critical care medicine.

Related Pages

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Critical Care Medicine
• Sleep Medicine
• Respiratory Therapy
• American College of Chest Physicians