This November, the LUNGevity Foundation is spearheading the nationwide observance of Lung Cancer Awareness Month (LCAM) with a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing public understanding, promoting research advancements, and emphasizing the critical need for early detection. Lung cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, surpassing fatalities from breast, prostate, ovarian, and kidney cancers combined. Despite these alarming statistics, significant strides are being made in improving survival rates due to heightened awareness and groundbreaking research.
According to Andrea Ferris, MBA, President and CEO of LUNGevity Foundation, “This month is about more than awareness; it’s also about action. We’re at a turning point in lung cancer research. People are living longer and better with lung cancer, but so much more needs to be done.” Ferris emphasizes the necessity of enhancing lung cancer screening accessibility, increasing funding for innovative detection technologies, and ensuring equitable access to care.
National Initiatives and Community Engagement
Throughout November, LUNGevity is implementing a range of impactful initiatives, including the launch of the “Anyone with Lungs Can Get Lung Cancer” campaign. This campaign aims to highlight that lung cancer does not discriminate based on age, gender, or smoking history, and provides actionable steps for the public to help spread awareness.
One of the most visually striking efforts will be the installation of 60,000 white flags on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., symbolizing the approximately 120,000 Americans who succumb to lung cancer each year. Similar installations will take place in Boston and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, further illustrating the toll of this disease across the country.
On November 8, the organization will host Breathe Deep TOGETHER events in major cities including Boston, Washington, D.C., and New York City. These community gatherings will provide essential education, resources, and support for lung health. Additionally, a nationwide virtual event titled Breathe Deep Anywhere will feature partner events across the country, including collaboration with the American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative.
A significant focus on November 8 will also be National Lung Cancer Screening Day, aimed at increasing participation in low-dose CT screenings, which are crucial for early detection. Following this, Cancer Biomarker Awareness Day on November 13 will highlight the role of precision medicine in enhancing treatment outcomes across various cancer types.
Community Support and Corporate Partnerships
In recognition of National Family Caregivers Month, LUNGevity is also honoring those who play a vital role in caring for and advocating for their loved ones battling lung cancer. The foundation appreciates the support from various sponsors, including AbbVie, Amgen, AstraZeneca, and others, whose contributions help facilitate these vital campaigns.
Lung Cancer Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder that anyone can be affected by lung cancer. Through extensive research, education, and advocacy, LUNGevity is committed to fostering a future where lung cancer is detected early, treated effectively, and ultimately cured. For more details on how to participate in Lung Cancer Awareness Month, visit www.LUNGevity.org/LCAM.
About lung cancer in the United States, approximately 1 in 18 Americans will receive a lung cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. More than 226,000 individuals are expected to be diagnosed this year, translating to a new diagnosis every 2.3 minutes. Alarmingly, nearly 65% of new lung cancer cases occur in individuals with no significant tobacco exposure. While lung cancer claims more lives than the next two deadliest cancers combined, early detection can significantly improve survival rates, with a five-year survival chance increasing to 65% when diagnosed in its early stages.
The LUNGevity Foundation is dedicated to transforming the experience of those diagnosed with lung cancer, focusing on enhancing quality of life and survivorship for all affected individuals. By promoting health equity and addressing disparities in care, LUNGevity aims to create a world where no one dies from lung cancer.
