About Us

Advances in technology, healthcare access and medicine all contributed to a dramatic downturn in active TB cases. As a result, the organization began to take an increased interest in the relationships between air pollution and respiratory disease. During the mid-20th Century, the fight against smog in Los Angeles became a major effort and the measuring of air pollution began. In the early 1970s, the organization focused on the prevention and control of lung disease and sponsored extensive research on the effects of air pollution on respiratory health. We were one of the first organizations to do so and we carry on this tradition today. For a number of years, the organization was affiliated with the American Lung Association (ALA) and American Lung Association of California (ALAC). In 2006, the organization ended its affiliation with ALA and ALAC, and is no longer affiliated in any way with those organizations.

Breathe Southern California (Breathe SoCal ) rebranded itself in 2006, continuing our mission dedicated to clean air and preventing lung and other air pollution related diseases by partnering with youth, advocating public policy, supporting lung health research, and educating the public. Breathe SoCal emphasizes our focus as an independent lung health organization to address Southern California’s specific air quality and health needs. As pediatric asthma rates increased nationwide, the organization also placed greater emphasis on asthma education programs, while continuing to pursue clean air initiatives.

Breathe SoCal is a member of the BREATHE America Alliance, a network of nationwide independent lung health organizations, and the BREATHE California Coalition, which includes two other BREATHE California organizations that focus on the Sacramento Region and the San Francisco Bay Area/Silicon Valley/Central Coast. The BREATHE Southern California coalition focuses on localized programs and comes together to implement programs and research that benefit all Californians. We work together to advance primary and secondary lung disease prevention and interventions, as well as advocate for clean air policies and practices in Sacramento.

To learn more about the activities of our affiliates and our statewide presence, visit www.breathecalifornia.org.