Fresh Air: News from Breathe PA

Did you know that viral infections can significantly worsen symptoms for those living with COPD? Learn how common viruses like influenza and RSV impact respiratory health and discover actionable strategies to prevent exacerbations. From vaccinations to lifestyle changes, our latest blog offers essential insights to help individuals with COPD breathe easier and live better.

Quitting tobacco and nicotine can feel intimidating and even unattainable for many. This perception remains one of the most significant barriers to quitting. The reality is that most of both youth and adult tobacco and nicotine users want to quit—they just don’t know where to begin. 

This guide walks through the essentials of quitting, from understanding daily nicotine use to creating a personalized quit plan.

This past fall, Breathe PA was honored to participate in the American Public Health Association’s (APHA) Annual Meeting in Minneapolis, attended by nearly 12,000 public health professionals worldwide.

Jessica Schuman, Breathe PA's Asthma Program Manager, presented the success of our School Asthma Initiative (SAI), highlighting its positive impact on students and educators.

During the conference, Breathe PA staff attended sessions on topics like reducing sleep health disparities and the effects of tobacco industry interference on public health research, gaining valuable insights to enhance our work.

Breathe PA’s Sleep Group webinar series continues to provide valuable information for individuals managing sleep disorders. In November 2024, Dr. Lucy Lubinski, a licensed clinical psychologist at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, led a session on Behavioral Health and Sleep Apnea, offering evidence-based strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and family therapy to address the behavioral factors impacting sleep. In January 2025, Dr. Venkatesh Krishnamurthy, a psychiatrist and sleep medicine specialist discussed COVID-19 and Sleep Apnea, exploring how the pandemic has influenced sleep disorders and the evolving relationship between COVID-19 and sleep health. Don’t miss our next webinar in March 2025 — details will be announced soon.

2025 Tuberculosis Conference (Virtual Event)

March 12 & 13, 2025 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.



This annual conference, held in collaboration with the Global Tuberculosis Institute at Rutgers University and the Pennsylvania Department of Health, is geared toward healthcare professionals. Professional credits pending.

Lung Health Heroes

May 29, 2025, 6:30 p.m. (VIP Reception at 6:00 p.m.)

Breathe PA’s signature fundraising event recognizes local Lung Health Heroes who are helping western Pennsylvanians breathe better and live healthier. 

Tools for Schools: Asthma Education for School Nurses & Practitioners

June 20, 2025, 8:30 a.m.-3:15 p.m.

This full-day conference offers professional education and resources to school nurses and nurse practitioners in the southwestern Pennsylvania region. Presented in collaboration with UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and American Lung Association. Professional credits pending. 

Session topics include:

-       Asthma Guidelines and Biologics

-       Environmental Impacts on Asthma

-       Anaphylaxis

-       Connection with Community Partners

-       Practical Resources for School Nurses’ Offices

-       ...and more!

November 4, 2024

Letter to the editor: Leaders must address asthma - Pittsburgh TribLIVE

January 15, 2025

Breathe PA discusses vaping and TRU groups on Fox 8 News Now

• Part 1
• Part 2

In 2024, Breathe PA delivered impactful results, expanding our reach and revitalizing our mission to improve lung and respiratory health across Pennsylvania. Our strategic vision for the future is well underway, ensuring innovative, data-driven programs that meet the evolving needs of our community. Get a closer look at the milestones and inspiring stories in our upcoming Breathe PA 2024 Annual Report, which will be released at the beginning of February 2025. Stay tuned!