The European Lung Health Group (ELHG) marked two years of joint work under the #KeepBreathing campaign during the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress 2025 in Amsterdam. The milestone was an opportunity to reflect on shared progress, exchange expertise and discuss future priorities to improve prevention, care and investment in respiratory health across Europe.
Working together for stronger lung health policies
During an in-person meeting, ELHG partners reviewed achievements from the past two years and identified next steps to strengthen collaboration. Discussions focused on how joint advocacy can support better prevention strategies, increased research funding and more coordinated approaches to respiratory care. Partners also explored how a potential EU Lung Health Plan could help deliver a more consistent policy framework for lung health across Member States.
Patient organisations in focus
The European Lung Foundation (ELF) opened the week with its Patient Organisation Day, highlighting how patient groups contribute to shaping care pathways, prevention strategies and policy priorities. Members of ELF’s Patient Organisation Network presented initiatives from around the world, including projects to improve access to care and address mental health needs in respiratory disease management.
Patient perspectives continued to guide discussions in sessions such as “Global Voices” and studio panels on access to care, where patients and professionals shared experiences and ideas on improving support and services. These exchanges underlined how patient involvement strengthens outcomes and supports the design of more effective policies and interventions.
Partners contributing across the programme
Throughout the week, ELHG partners were actively involved in a range of sessions, workshops and meetings. Representatives contributed to panel discussions, shared research, and participated in expert groups and task forces to ensure that patient needs, clinical evidence and policy goals remain aligned. Many partners also brought forward proposals to strengthen prevention, improve access to care and increase investment in respiratory health, reflecting the collaborative spirit of the #KeepBreathing campaign.
Two years on from the launch of #KeepBreathing, the European Lung Health Group continues to build a shared platform for dialogue and cooperation. The ERS Congress 2025 showed how bringing together patient expertise, clinical knowledge and policy perspectives can drive progress in respiratory health for better lives of patients.