Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Take Action for Health and Prevention

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the most common cause of cancer death in the U.S. for both men and women. Lung cancer accounts for about 1 in 4 cancer deaths nationwide, with over 238,000 people diagnosed and 127,000 lives lost in 2023 alone, according to the National Cancer Institute.

Lung cancer’s leading cause is smoking, but other risk factors include exposure to secondhand smoke, radiation therapy, asbestos, radon, and certain workplace chemicals like chromium and arsenic. Family history also plays a role. The combination of smoking with these factors increases the risk even further.

How Can We Prevent Lung Cancer?

The good news is that lung cancer can be prevented in many ways, starting with avoiding tobacco. Here are key steps you can take to reduce your risk:

  • Don't smoke or quit smoking.

  • Avoid secondhand smoke by staying away from environments where people smoke.

  • Test your home for radon to eliminate this cancer-causing gas.

  • Protect yourself at work from hazardous substances like asbestos or tar.

  • Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

  • Exercise regularly to strengthen your body and immune system.

  • Screen for lung cancer—early detection saves lives.

Take Action During the Great American Smokeout

For those who smoke, quitting can feel overwhelming. However, it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your health. On Thursday, November 21, the American Cancer Society is hosting the Great American Smokeout (GASO). This annual event encourages individuals to quit smoking or support a loved one in their quitting journey.

Quitting smoking is not easy, but the health benefits are immediate and long-lasting, including:

  • Lowering your heart rate and blood pressure

  • Improving lung capacity

  • Reducing your risk of heart attack

  • Protecting others from secondhand smoke

Resources for Quitting Tobacco

Healthy Acadia encourages the use of the Maine QuitLink, a free resource to help people stop smoking. Visit Maine QuitLink or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW to take the first step in your tobacco-free journey.

Healthy Acadia also offers Freshstart, a nicotine treatment program developed by the American Cancer Society. It’s free for individuals or groups in Hancock and Washington counties, available both in person and virtually.

Let's Work Together to Beat Lung Cancer

Quitting smoking can feel daunting, but it’s the best choice for your physical and emotional health. Lung Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to commit to quitting or help a loved one take that step.

Healthy Acadia’s tobacco prevention team also offers interactive discussions about the risks of vaping, busting myths for teens, parents, and caregivers. If you’re interested in these programs for your school or community, reach out to us at tobacco@healthyacadia.org or call 207-667-7171 or 207-255-3741.

This month, let’s focus on lung cancer prevention, raising awareness, and supporting those on the path to becoming tobacco-free. Together, we can create a healthier future for everyone.

POSTTracey Carlsontobacco, vaping, quit smoking, QuitLink, lung cancer, cancer screening, cancer risk factors, cancer prevention, cancer, smoking, SPR, SB, HA