2. The conference includes a dedicated Latin America scientific track, with research presented in Spanish and Portuguese. Why was it important to introduce this initiative? We want the World Conference to be as inclusive and accessible as possible. Introducing a dedicated Latin America scientific track allows more researchers to share their work in Spanish and Portuguese, helping ensure important research reaches a wider audience. It’s about recognising the strength of science across the region and creating more opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
3. What can delegates expect from this year’s programme, and which sessions or themes are you particularly excited about? This year’s programme reflects the breadth of challenges and opportunities across lung health today. From tuberculosis and post-TB lung disease to vaccine innovation, social protection and One Health, delegates can expect cutting-edge science alongside practical discussions about how we translate evidence into policy and practice. What excites me most is bringing together people from different disciplines and countries to find solutions together.
4. For healthcare professionals, researchers and advocates who are considering attending, what makes The Union World Conference a must-attend event? What makes the World Conference unique is the people it brings together. It’s the only conference that unites researchers, clinicians, policymakers, advocates and people affected by lung disease in one place. Those conversations don’t just stay at the conference; they lead to collaborations, influence policy and help shape the future of lung health around the world.
5. The Union has introduced a donated student membership initiative to support those who may otherwise be unable to join. Why is investing in the next generation of lung health professionals so important? Today’s students are tomorrow’s researchers, clinicians and leaders. By supporting student membership, we’re investing in the future of lung health and helping ensure talented people can access knowledge, build networks and contribute to improving health worldwide, regardless of their financial circumstances.
6. What message would you like to share with researchers, clinicians and students across Latin America who are thinking about attending the conference or becoming part of The Union community? I’d encourage anyone passionate about improving lung health to join us in Rio. Whether you’re presenting research, looking to build new collaborations or wanting to learn from colleagues around the world, this is an opportunity to be part of a truly global community working together to improve lung health for all.
7. Final thoughts: No single organisation or profession can solve the world’s lung health challenges alone. That’s why partnerships matter. The World Conference is a place where respiratory professionals from every discipline can come together, share expertise and build the collaborations that will drive better research, better policy and, ultimately, better outcomes for people affected by lung disease.