American Lung Association Magazine Debuts; LUNG health created by Vitality Communications.

GREENSBORO, N.C. -- Vitality Communications announces publication of the premier issue of LUNG health, the magazine of the American Lung Association. The publication features the latest information on the association's research and programs, advice for managing conditions such as COPD and asthma, answers to questions about lung health, and news about the organization.

"We are delighted to be partnering with the American Lung Association to help bring this valuable information to the public," said William G. Moore, president of Vitality Communications, which is the custom-publishing arm of StayWell, the largest provider of consumer health materials in the United States. "For more than 100 years, the American Lung Association has had an outstanding record of service in the fight against lung disease, and this new publication will help to further the association's vital communication with the public, patients, and caregivers."

The 32-page first issue of LUNG health contains feature articles on dealing with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), living with asthma, smoking cessation through the association's Freedom From Smoking program, fighting the flu, and understanding the dangers of radon gas. There also are inspirational personal success stories related to lung disease, a question-and-answer interview with lung experts, and information about association research, advocacy, and resources. The magazine, which has a colorful, easy-to-read design and layout, has an initial circulation of 100,000 and is being distributed to patients through physicians' offices and to association affiliates and contributors.

In a letter to readers in the first issue, American Lung Association President and CEO John L. Kirkwood and Chairman John F. "Jack" Sutter say that the association "is committed to finding new ways to reach communities in need, harnessing new technologies and ways of disseminating information. The magazine you're holding in your hands is one of those ways," write Kirkwood and Sutter. "It is part of our effort to better serve you and provide you with even more information about lung health. We are committed to providing the information and knowledge that everyone needs to breathe easier."

For more information about the American Lung Association and to support the work that it does, call 800-LUNG-USA (800-586-4872) or log on to www.lungusa.org. For more information on LUNG health magazine and Vitality Communications, a MediMedia USA company, call 336-547-8970 or log on to www.vitalitycommunications.com.

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