By: Grace Christman

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of lung cancer, how to prevent it and detect it early, and the effects of lung cancer on our communities. The American Cancer Society also holds The Great American Smokeout on the third Thursday of November. This year the annual event is on November 16, and a time to challenge smokers to give up cigarettes for 24 hours and take the first step to quitting for good. 

While studies show that lung cancer incidence and mortality rates are declining across the country it is still the most common cause of cancer deaths for both men and women in the United States. In fact, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in every racial/ethnic group among male adults. 

Routine screening, early detection and treatment are essential to reducing the advanced state or late-stage lung cancer and improving cancer survivorship.

Is lung cancer preventable?

Most lung cancer deaths are preventable. Several factors contribute to the onset of lung cancer including tobacco use, radon exposure, secondhand smoke exposure and environmental exposures at home, work or in other environments. 

Quitting tobacco reduces a person’s risk of acquiring a tobacco-related cancer. Tobacco cessation is also beneficial for cancer survivors, especially when considering reducing risks associated with cancer recurrence. Tobacco cessation resources, like the Indiana Tobacco Quitline and free nicotine replacement therapy, can assist you in quitting to protect your health.

Lung cancer screening is recommended for some people who smoke or have recently quit smoking. Increasing cancer screening resources among individuals who smoke or vape, have smoked or vaped, or are frequently exposed to secondhand smoke or aerosol can improve lung cancer outcomes by detecting and treating lung cancer early nationwide. Early detection is important, as lung cancer often exhibits minimal to zero symptoms in its early stages.

What can I do if I am at risk for lung cancer?

Numerous healthcare systems offer simple and convenient lung cancer screenings. IU Health offers scans locally for $49. Call 765.282.7595 for more information or to schedule a scan. This year, hospital systems around the nation – including IU Health – are offering free scans for eligible veterans on Saturday, November 11, 2023 from 8 AM to 2 PM. To see if you are eligible, visit: cancer.iu.edu/community/ecln/events or call the Imaging Center at 765.282.7595. Veterans are 25% more likely to receive a lung cancer diagnosis in their lifetime compared to the general population. Early detection is key and can be lifesaving. 

How can I quit using tobacco and nicotine?

Quitting is tough – but so are you! The good news is, you don’t have to quit cold turkey. There are resources at your disposal to help you in your quit journey. Talk to your primary care provider about local tobacco treatment programs available. 

The Indiana Tobacco Quitline is also a great option. Eligible individuals will receive free nicotine replacement therapy in the form of gum, lozenges, or patches. You will also receive free counseling from a Quit Coach! Visit www.quitnowindiana.com or call 1.800.QUITNOW to begin your quit journey. Grace Christman is the Tobacco Free Blackford County Coordinator. For more information, contact her at grace@tobaccofreeblackfordcounty.org.