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Introduction The management of COPD, a leading cause of death and disability globally [1, 2], remains suboptimal and patients often experience an unacceptable disease burden and adverse outcomes even if they receive optimal available treatments [3, 4]. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the development of novel, effective treatments to alter the natural history of COPD and improve its outcomes.

Introduction Lung cancer remains one of the most common and deadly malignancies worldwide. In 2022, it accounted for ∼2.5 million new cases (12.4% of all cancers) and ∼1.8 million deaths (18.7% of cancer deaths) [1]. Diagnosis at an advanced stage drives dismal outcomes, with a 5-year survival of only about <18% [2], whereas detection at earlier stages could improve 5-year survival to 80% or higher [3]. Most lung cancer cases are diagnosed at later stages.

Introduction Air pollution remains a major contributor to public health outcomes in recent global disease burden studies [1]. Outdoor air pollution exposure is associated with increased disability-adjusted life years, reduced life expectancy, and higher all-cause mortality rates, and is related to a wide range of noncommunicable conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases [1–3].

Introduction Chronic eosinophilic pneumonia (CEP) is a rare lung disease characterised by eosinophilic infiltration of the pulmonary parenchyma. The diagnosis is based on clinical presentation, characteristic radiological findings and evidence of pulmonary or peripheral eosinophilia, together with the exclusion of alternative causes of eosinophilic lung disease [1, 2].

Introduction Lung cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States of America and the leading cause of cancer death [1]. The American Cancer Society estimated that 238 340 new cases of lung cancer would be diagnosed in 2023, and >120 000 people would die from the disease, accounting for ∼20% of all cancer deaths [2].

Introduction Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains a major global health challenge. The World Health Organization estimated that COPD caused 3.5 million deaths in 2021, accounting for approximately 5% of all global deaths, with nearly 90% of premature COPD deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries [1].

Introduction Air pollution is a major public health problem, contributing to approximately 7 million premature deaths each year [1]. Beyond its harmful effect on the cardiovascular and neurological systems [2], air pollution is also an established risk factor for the incidence and exacerbation of respiratory diseases such as asthma, lung cancer and acute respiratory infection [3].

Introduction and rationale M. pneumoniae is a cell-wall-deficient prokaryote and a leading aetiologic agent of community-acquired pneumonia in children and adolescents. While infections are typically self-limiting and manifest as mild respiratory illness, they can progress to severe pneumonia in some individuals. Recent increases in MRMP, particularly in East Asia, have raised important challenges for clinical management and treatment strategies.

Introduction Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) comprises a group of rare genetic disorders that impair the structure, assembly and function of motile cilia. The global prevalence of PCD is estimated to be at least one in 7500 individuals [1]. Pathogenic variants in over 50 different genes have been implicated in PCD, resulting in a spectrum of symptoms and disease severity [2].

Introduction Oxygen therapy is deeply embedded in clinical protocols, not only in intensive care settings, but also in emergency departments, surgical suites, ambulatory care, and at home. Oxygen is frequently administered as a first-line therapy for patients presenting with dyspnoea, hypoxaemia and respiratory distress. In these settings, supra-atmospheric concentrations of oxygen can improve partial pressure of oxygen in the blood and ultimately correct end-organ hypoxia.