The prevalence of emphysema is increasing due to the aging population, advances in diagnostic tools, and increased exposure to environmental factors that impact pathogenesis. Understanding the effect of these factors on the clinical manifestation of different emphysematous pathologies and pursing novel advances in lung regeneration after parenchymal destruction will have a significant impact on lung health.
By highlighting emerging concepts of shared relevance to the fields of lung biology and emphysema and by addressing strategies to improve translation of scientific advances to reduce the burden of lung destruction characteristic of COPD and other rare lung diseases, the
2025 Thomas L. Petty Aspen Lung Conference will promote scientific advances in emphysema biology, injury resolution, and therapeutic intervention, ultimately improving lung health.
This conference is co-chaired by Irina Petrache, MD, ATSF, president of the American Thoracic Society (2024-25).