Shining a light on lung cancer

What began as one awareness day back in November of 1995 has grown into Lung Cancer Awareness Month, now in its 20th year, as the lung cancer movement expanded and activities increased. Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women, but is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States.[1] Although the risk of developing lung cancer is highest in smokers (about 90%[2]), many people who do not smoke develop lung cancer each year. Luckily, there are plenty of ways for you to get involved and help spread lung cancer awareness throughout the month of November – and year-round.

• Shine a Light on Lung Cancer: This year’s 7^th annual global event, hosted by Lung Cancer Alliance, is taking place on November 5, and is largest coordinated awareness event for lung cancer in the U.S. The lighting of the flashlights in local communities honors survivors and loved ones, and provides hope, inspiration and support for everyone touched by lung cancer. Find the Shine a Light on Lung Cancer event near you!
• Do your part in fundraising for a cure: Participate in the event of your choice, on your own or with family and friends, and fundraise to support Lung Cancer Alliance or another lung cancer mission of your choice. Don’t forget, PatientsLikeMe will make a donation to your fundraising efforts – and provide team t-shirts – through PatientsLikeMeInMotion. All you have to do is join PatientsLikeMe, get 3 stars on your profile and submit your team details.
• Take part in local, national or global events: Take part in one of many events hosted by Lung Cancer Alliance, our partners at LUNGevity, or host and attend your own event!
• Spread awareness through social media: Make a difference in your social networks. Lung Cancer Alliance offers some sample posts to get started.
• Become a #LUNGFORCEday social ambassador: Launched by the American Lung Association, the LUNG FORCE initiative aims to unite women to stand together against lung cancer and for lung health.

How are you showing your support for those touched by lung cancer this November, or in the months ahead? Share your awareness efforts, and experience with lung cancer, in the PatientsLikeMe forum, and connect with more than 3,380 others living with lung cancer on the site.