Leading Chicago Healthcare System Continues to Raise the Bar for Lung Health

With over 1.6 million people in Illinois suffering from chronic lung disease and 5,140 residents expected to pass away from lung cancer this year, the American Lung Association in Greater Chicago is pleased to announce Northwestern Medicine has signed on as the presenting sponsor of the LUNG FORCE Walk at Cantigny Park on Oct. 16, 2022. The annual event is held to support lifesaving research, local programs and advocacy for the greater Chicago area community.

“We are proud that so many individuals in Chicagoland living with lung disease, including lung cancer and COVID-19, benefit from the funds raised for this event,” said Micki Sandquist at the Lung Association. “However, we couldn’t make a positive impact in people’s lives without supporters like Northwestern Medicine, who continue to be at the forefront of groundbreaking research like the first-ever millennial Lung Health Cohort Study in partnership with the American Lung Association. From funding lung cancer education to offering valuable resources and lung disease research, Northwestern Medicine helps us provide vital support to the greater Chicago area community.”

The Chicagoland LUNG FORCE Walk attracts hundreds of enthusiastic people who power-walk, stroll or saunter for 2.5 miles along the scenic and historic Cantigny Park in Wheaton, IL. Participants celebrate the power to bring about positive change, support people living with lung disease and honor the memory of loved ones they’ve lost. For those who can’t attend the event this year, the Lung Association is offering a Walk Your Way virtual option. 

“Northwestern Medicine is delighted to be the presenting sponsor for the American Lung Association’s 2022 LUNG FORCE Walk to raise awareness for lung health and help end lung disease,” said Ankit Bharat, MD, chief of thoracic surgery at Northwestern Medicine and executive director of the Canning Thoracic Institute. “This long-time partnership is a foundation of Northwestern Medicine’s enduring commitment to a healthier Chicagoland.”

This is the eighth consecutive year Northwestern Medicine has sponsored the LUNG FORCE Walk. From sponsorship and team fundraising, the healthcare system has contributed over $366,000 to help eliminate lung disease. 

Registration for the Chicagoland LUNG FORCE Walk is free, and participants are encouraged to fundraise for the event. For more information, and to register, visit LUNGFORCEWalk.org/Chicago.

The American Lung Association Lung Health Cohort is the first-ever large-scale lung health study that will track 4,000 young adults (aged 25-35) at the age of peak lung health. Scientists across the country will follow these millennials for approximately five years after their initial interviews to evaluate how their environment, lifestyle and physical activity habits affect respiratory health. Millennials interested in participating can sign up here.