When: November
What: Any cancer is scary, but lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States and the second most common cancer in both men and women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), lung cancer rates have decreased over the years due to fewer people smoking cigarettes but it is still prevalent. During November, increase awareness for lung cancer, its symptoms and treatment efforts during Lung Cancer Awareness Month.
Background: In November 1995, a day was chosen to increase awareness around lung cancer. As lung cancer became more prevalent and the need for awareness grew, one day became a month. Today, awareness activities and events are held throughout the United States to promote lung cancer treatments and awareness in November.
Story Pitch: A number of groups and organizations can pitch around Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Anti-smoking organizations will want to take time this month to promote the benefits of quitting and different techniques that are now available. Doctors, specifically oncologists, can highlight some of the symptoms of lung cancer and may mention when to seek possible treatment. It’s also a good time for schools to openly discuss cigarette smoking and its dangers. Manufacturers who make aids to quit smoking can promote around this month as well.
Story Hook: According to the CDC, the leading cause of lung cancer is cigarette smoking, but factors like exposure to asbestos or radon can also be causes. Consider the following when you make your pitch:
- What are some symptoms of lung cancer?
- How is lung cancer treated?
- How can someone address the issue of lung cancer if a family member is stricken with the disease?
- What are the survival rates once diagnosed?
Tips: An oncologist who deals specifically with lung cancer would have insight on how to handle a lung cancer diagnosis and treatment plan. In addition, someone who has overcome lung cancer will have suggestions on coping with a lung cancer.
Resources:
American Cancer Society
(800) 227-2345
www.cancer.org
Cancer Research Institute
(212) 688-7515
www.cancerresearch.org
Centers for Disease Control
(800) 232-4636
www.cdc.gov
Lung Cancer Alliance
(202) 463-2080
info(at)lungcanceralliance.org
www.lungcanceralliance.org
Event Dates from CHASE’S Calendar of Events
