Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS)

World Pneumonia Day 2023

On World Pneumonia Day, Nov. 12, the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS), of which the American Thoracic Society is a founding member, is highlighting the urgent challenges in pneumonia prevention and treatment globally.

Pneumonia is the leading cause of death in young children. Over 650,000 children under 5 die from pneumonia each year - especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Pneumonia is also a major cause of deaths among the elderly. However, pneumonia can be prevented and treated.