ATS President David Gozal, MD, MBA, discusses Sunday highlights at ATS 2017.

Investing in early childhood education for socially and economically disadvantaged children makes sense. Every dollar invested in early childhood development returns between $7 and $13 annually in improved physical and mental health, more education, higher income, and reduced crime over the succeeding decades.

Patients should not be the passive victims of their diseases and conditions. Instead, they should act as the quarterbacks of their treatment teams to improve their outcomes.

On behalf of the ATS International Conference Committee, I am pleased to welcome you to ATS 2017. It is wonderful to be meeting in Washington, DC, the city that 113 years ago hosted the first conference of the American Sanatorium Association, which became the American Thoracic Society in 1960.

The ATS continues its efforts to impact health care and policies domestically and around the globe. The ATS president and president-elect outlined those efforts in addresses Saturday evening during the ATS 2017 Opening Ceremony.

On Saturday, David Center, MD, was recognized for his long service as a clinician, investigator, and teacher as he received the Breathing for Life Award at the Ninth Annual ATS Foundation Research Program Benefit at the Marriott Marquis Washington.

Thousands of health care professionals see the ATS International Conference as an opportunity to expand their knowledge. Several hundred of them arrived early to jump-start their learning with programs for early career professionals.

Three physicians were recognized Saturday during the Opening Ceremony for their contributions to pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. In addition, a Presidential Award was presented.

Clinical trial investigators can learn about research opportunities at ATS 2017 by visiting exhibitors currently involved in trials. Nine exhibitors are featured in the Exhibit Hall and in the Clinical Trials Awareness Area. The area is in Concourse B of the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

Household air pollution from burning biomass is a known problem in developing nations, where food often is prepared over these fires. However, North America also has indoor pollution problems, particularly in homes near highways, with improperly ventilated gas fireplaces, or where wood is burned for heat. Speakers will examine health issues related to pollution during a Sunday symposium.