November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month!

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month!

More than 220,000 people in the United States will be diagnoses with lung cancer this year and over 155,000 people will die from lung cancer (National Cancer Institute, 2016).  Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death.

Lung Cancer Screening

It is relatively new that there is a screening option.  Screening recommendations consist of:

  • low-dose computed tomography (low-dose CT scan)
  • yearly screening for people who have a heavy smoking history or heavy smoking history who quit within 15 years and are between 55 and 80.

Lung Cancer Signs and Symptoms

  • coughing that gets worse or does not go away
  • chest pain
  • shortness of breath
  • wheezing
  • coughing up blood
  • fatigue
  • weight loss

Reduce your Risk

  • Don’t smoke.  Smoking causes about 90% of lung cancers.
  • Avoid secondhand smoke
  • Test your home for radon
  • Be careful at work.  Know the types of chemicals you work with as well as safety guidelines.

For more information on lung cancer go to American Cancer Society or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A Bit About the Coalition

Cape Atlantic Coalition for Health is a regional chronic disease prevention coalition funded by the New Jersey Department of Health, Office of Cancer Control and Prevention. Our purpose is to reduce the state's cancer burden and improve health outcomes for people with, or at risk for, cancer and other chronic diseases in Atlantic and Cape may counties. For more information on comprehensive cancer control, visit www.njcancer.gov. Shore Medical Center is the lead agency for Atlantic and Cape May counties. The CACH is working on a variety of projects to improve our community's health. You can help by becoming involved by being a member or volunteer. Anyone interested should call 609-653-3923.