Lung cancer awareness

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States and the second most common cancer among both men and women. Early detection is a key to survival.

Symptoms of lung cancer include coughing, wheezing, hoarseness and fatigue. These symptoms are sometimes confused with less serious health conditions. You may be at increased risk if you have a family history of lung cancer, or have been exposed to radon, asbestos or other cancer-causing agents.

The most important ways to lower your risk of getting lung cancer are to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke. Also, test your home for radon, a naturally occurring gas that comes from rocks and dirt and can get trapped in houses and buildings. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer.

It’s important to note that not everyone who smokes gets cancer, nor does everyone who gets lung cancer smoke. Screening is recommended for people at high risk because of their smoking history and age. Lung cancer treatments may include surgery, radiation or chemotherapy treatments, or other radiology procedures. Discuss lung cancer risks, symptoms and treatment options with your doctor.

Several resources provide help to stop smoking. Visit our smoking cessation webpage to learn more.

Sources:
CDC.gov, “Lung Cancer Awareness.” CDC.gov, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 26 October 2017.
Radiologyinfo.org, “November is National Lung Cancer Awareness Month.” Radiologyinfo.org, Radiological Society of North America, Inc., 5 October 2018.