Respiratory medicine continues to face dynamic and increasingly complex challenges in addressing the growing burden of lung and respiratory diseases. Infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and pneumonia remain significant public health concerns, while chronic respiratory disorders including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, and interstitial lung diseases (ILD) continue to contribute substantially to morbidity and mortality. In parallel, occupational and environmental lung diseases, pulmonary infections, and thoracic malignancies, particularly lung cancer, present further challenges that require comprehensive and multidisciplinary approaches.
At the same time, pulmonology is undergoing a transformative era driven by rapid advances in science, technology, and clinical practice. Innovations in diagnostic imaging, molecular and biological biomarkers, minimally invasive procedures, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and precision medicine are continuously reshaping the approach to respiratory diseases. These developments provide new opportunities for earlier diagnosis, more accurate disease characterization, individualized treatment, and improved clinical outcomes. However, the rapid evolution of knowledge and technology also emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to continuously update their competencies and integrate the latest evidence into daily clinical practice.
In this evolving landscape, the transformation of pulmonology extends beyond advances in diagnosis and treatment. Achieving lifelong lung wellness requires a broader perspective that encompasses prevention, early detection, personalized management, rehabilitation, and long-term disease monitoring. It also requires collaboration among pulmonologists, other healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers, and the wider community to address respiratory health throughout the continuum of life. By embracing innovation while maintaining a patient-centered and evidence-based approach, pulmonology can continue to evolve in response to emerging challenges and unmet clinical needs.
Recognizing the importance of these developments, the Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga – Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, is committed to fostering the advancement and dissemination of scientific knowledge in respiratory medicine. Through PIR 2026 – Respiratory Scientific Meeting, themed “Transforming Pulmonology for Lifelong Lung Wellness,” we aim to provide a comprehensive scientific forum for sharing the latest evidence, innovations, and clinical experiences in respiratory medicine. PIR 2026 is expected to strengthen professional competence, encourage scientific collaboration, and inspire transformative approaches to respiratory care—ultimately contributing to better lung health and improved quality of life for patients across the lifespan.