November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month

November is Lung Cancer Awareness month. Lung cancer continues to affect thousands of New Yorkers and their families every year, and represents a significant risk to public health. Thousands of lives can be saved each year through awareness, healthful lifestyles, and medical care.

Lung cancer is still the leading cause of cancer deaths in New York State, claiming over 9,000 lives each year, and directly affecting over 13,000 men and women, and their families. By raising public awareness of the risk factors associated with lung cancer, New Yorkers can reduce their likelihood of developing the disease. Smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer, and quitting significantly reduces the probability of developing most forms of cancer.

The second most common cause of lung cancer, radon gas, seeps up from underground and collects in enclosed spaces like buildings, increasing exposure and the likelihood of developing the cancer. Having homes tested and modified to prevent radon and asbestos exposure reduces health risks, and combined with not smoking can reduce the likelihood of lung cancer by more than 85%.

To find out more about lung cancer please visit the following NYS Department of Health website:

• http://www.health.ny.gov/statistics/cancer/registry/abouts/lung.htm
• http://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/radiological/radon/radon.htm