2020 was a landmark year for The Union World Conference on Lung Health.
The Conference not only helped recognise and celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease in 1920, but also had to respond to a world transformed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The planned location of Seville in Spain had to be changed at very short notice and the entire conference was created and delivered digitally.
The new format maintained the highest levels of scientific knowledge and research, for which the Conference is renowned, and offered improved access and engagement for a wider audience due to the virtual nature of the event.
The Conference attracted over 5,100 delegates, with India being the most represented country and Africa being the most represented continent. For the first time, The Union was able to offer fully supported registrations for all lung health survivors.
The main themes from previous conferences were developed through oral abstracts and symposium, a comprehensive TB Science programme was delivered, so too a wide range of Community Connect activities and special sessions on the global fight against COVID-19.
The Conference was broadcast across seven individual channels, for approximately ten hours per day for four days. Over 600 scientific abstracts and 400 e-posters were presented.
The Conference Opening Ceremony was a celebration of The Union’s 100-year history.
With special presentations from HIH Crown Princess Akishino of Japan, Dr Tedros Director-General of the World Health Organization, Claire Forlani actor and Union Ambassador, Divya Sojan TB survivor and nurse, and President Clinton, it was a validation of work of The Union and an endorsement of the ongoing mission to eradicate TB and promote improved Lung Health for All.
