The American Lung Association’s Epidemiology and Statistics Unit analyzes national datasets to track lung disease trends in mortality, prevalence, hospitalizations, economic costs, and risk factors. Explore our statistical briefs and tools below, including asthma, COPD, lung cancer, tobacco, and more.
At A Glance
- More than 35 million people in the U.S. live with chronic lung disease, like asthma and COPD.
- Over 16 million people in the U.S. live with tobacco-related disease, and there are close to half a million tobacco-related deaths each year.
- 44% of people in the U.S. live in places with unhealthy levels of air pollution.
- Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death overall and among both men and women.
State of Lung Cancer
This signature report shows how the toll of lung cancer varies by state by examining key lung cancer indicators including incidence, survival, stage at diagnosis, surgical treatment, lack of treatment, and screening.
Featured Briefs
A Note on Methodology and Data Sources:
Our reports draw on raw data from national health surveys and government databases, including the National Center for Health Statistics and related agencies. These datasets allow us to analyze trends in mortality, prevalence, hospitalizations, economic burden, and risk factors. When using our estimates—especially county- or state-level figures—please review limitations described in the corresponding methodology notes to ensure accurate interpretation.
Additional data on lung disease topics can also be found using our Lung Disease Lookup.
Page last updated: May 15, 2026
