The American Lung Association (ALA), originally established to combat the "Great White Plague" of tuberculosis, underwent several name changes throughout the 20th century to reflect its evolving mission. The specific name National Tuberculosis Association (NTA) was officially retired in 1968, when the organization transitioned to the National Tuberculosis and Respiratory Disease Association (NTRDA). This change was a precursor to the adoption of the current name, the American Lung Association, which occurred in 1973.