This report presents the results of a survey of U.S. American Thoracic Society members on questions related to global climate change. The majority of respondents indicated that they are observing adverse impacts on the health of their patients attributable to climate change. An accompanying editorial by Mary Rice summarizes reputed adverse effects of climate change on lung health and urges pulmonologists to engage now, by focusing on informing the public and elected government representatives about the health consequences of climate change. In a Perspective on the subject, Gary Ewart, the ATS Senior Director for Government Relations, and his physician colleagues draw a parallel between current international efforts to control global greenhouse gas emissions and the successful international effort to control atmospheric ozone depletion 20 to 30 years ago. The authors remind us that the ATS played an important role in reducing the release of ozone-depleting emissions from inhaler medications. They argue that the organization can be similarly effective by engaging as environmental health experts in current international negotiations on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

20150225 AnnalsATS

20150225 Ewart Editorial AnnalsATS

20150225 Mary Rice Editorial AnnalsATS