The American Lung Association (ALA) has been a steadfast advocate for lung health, addressing respiratory diseases like asthma, COPD and lung cancer. With a mission to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease, the organization’s work impacts communities across the country, including right here in Southwest Ohio. From educational initiatives to fundraisers, the ALA strives to create a healthier future.
Amber Smith, development manager for the ALA in Cincinnati and Columbus, explains it best.
“Our mission is a world free of lung disease, and we do that through three pillars: research, education and advocacy and how that impacts our community,” says Smith.
The ALA specifically works on the stigma surrounding lung disease.
“Lung disease is often seen as something you’ve done to yourself,” she explains, “but that’s not true. Genetics, occupational hazards, poor air quality and other factors all play a role.”
This stigma often delays early diagnosis and treatment—something the ALA is determined to change through education and community outreach. One way they do this is through inspiring events like the Fight for Air Climb, which shines a light on the importance of early screenings, clean air advocacy and community action.
The climb, scheduled for April 13 at TQL Stadium downtown, is one of the American Lung Associations’ most engaging fundraisers, offering participants a unique and exhilarating way to support lung health.
“This year is our 20th anniversary,” Smith shares excitedly. “We started this event at Carew Tower, but after 2020, we moved it outdoors to the (Reds) stadium.”
2025 marks the first year this event will be held at the TQL Stadium. During the climb, about 600 participants ascend more than 1,000 steps and can choose from various challenges: climbing the bottom bowl, tackling the top bowl in full firefighter gear or competing in the Power Hour to see how many steps they can conquer in sixty minutes. Teams and individuals alike contribute to the cause with winners earning certificates of achievement. Participation fees may be covered individually or through personal fundraising efforts.
“It’s a nationwide event,” Smith adds, “but here in Cincinnati, the energy is something special.”
The climb is more than just a physical challenge–it’s a chance to honor those impacted by lung disease. Last year, a firefighter’s family participated to honor his memory. Their dedication embodies the event’s spirit, a collective effort to fight for cleaner air and healthier lives.
All funds raised have a tangible, local impact, too, expanding lung cancer screening programs, educating students about vaping risks and funding health fairs that promote early detection and prevention.
“Research and education are crucial,” Smith emphasizes. “We’re fighting for systemic change to improve community health.”
The ALA advocates not only locally but at the national level.
“We go to Capitol Hill and push for clean air bills and better insurance policies,” Smith states. “The Clean Air Act bills are [especially] crucial here in Cincinnati, where Hamilton County has the worst air quality in all of Ohio.”
These efforts are amplified by partnerships with Daiichi Sankyo, a pharmaceutical company, as well as healthcare systems such as TriHealth, Christ Hospital and St. Elizabeth Healthcare. Together, they’re raising funds and driving innovative solutions. Notably, Christ Hospital’s AI technology called Epic has shown promise in identifying early-stage lung cancer.
“The problem with lung cancer,” Smith notes, “is that early detection is crucial. AI used at Christ detected 34 cases during routine abdominal scans.”
The ALA is working to address this gap by lobbying for lung cancer screening to become as routine as a colonoscopy or mammogram. Insurance companies don’t currently cover pre-screenings, only scans for those with heavy smoking histories.
As Smith puts it, “Lung disease affects everyone we know—whether it’s asthma, COPD or the lingering effects of COVID. Together, we can fight for cleaner air and healthier communities.”
From climbing to donating or volunteering, there are countless ways to support the American Lung Association. Register for the climb in advance at FightForAirClimb.org/Cincinnati or on the day of the event.
American Lung Association | Lung.org | Amber.Smith@Lung.org
“Research and education are crucial. We’re fighting for systemic change to improve community health.”