November is officially Lung Cancer Awareness Month. The event started back in 1995 as Lung Cancer Awareness Day. As the lung cancer community and the lung cancer movement grew, awareness activities increased. Therefore, it became apparent there was a need for a larger awareness campaign beyond just a day.
On December 1, 2020, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution designating November as National Lung Cancer Awareness Month. As a result, the resolution will allow a major drive to support the early detection of lung cancer, including:
- Promote efforts to increase awareness of and education about lung cancer and lung cancer screening.
- Recognize the need for research on the early diagnosis, screening, and treatment of lung cancer.
- Encourage the American public to observe National Lung Cancer Awareness Month with appropriate awareness and educational activities.
- Encourage people throughout the country to come together to support the lung cancer community and raise awareness about the disease.
What Causes Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in one or both lungs. These abnormal cells do not carry out the functions of normal lung cells and do not develop into healthy lung tissue. As they grow, the abnormal cells can form tumors and interfere with the functioning of the lung, which provides oxygen to the body via the blood.
According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women and accounts for about 27% of all cancer-related deaths. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. The American Cancer Society estimates that there are more than 200,000 new cases of lung cancer diagnosed in the United States.
Non-Smokers Are Also At Risk
Although smoking is the main cause of lung cancer, lung cancer risk also is increased by exposure to secondhand smoke; environmental exposures, such as radon, workplace toxins (e.g., asbestos, arsenic), and air pollution. The risk of lung cancer can be reduced by quitting smoking and by eliminating or reducing exposure to secondhand smoke and environmental and workplace risk factors.
Along with the health challenges of lung cancer, the cost of treatment can also be difficult. Sometimes advanced treatments can be expensive or not available locally. The expense of travel and other out-of-pocket expenses can quickly add up. ASBA can help. We offer a Cancer Plan that can protect you and your loved ones from these overwhelming costs. The plan pays money directly to you in one lump sum payment upon first diagnosis, giving you the power to use it however you want or need: for treatment, travel, or anything else. An optional heart and stroke rider is available for additional premium. To learn more click to request a free Benefits Review.
Source: https://voice.ons.org/advocacy/us-senate-designates-november-as-national-lung-cancer-awareness-month
https://medlineplus.gov/lungcancer.html#summary
