Lung Cancer Awareness Month – November 2025
Understanding the Health Risks of Lung Cancer
Lung cancer remains one of the most common and serious cancers worldwide. Knowing the risk factors empowers individuals to make lifestyle changes and seek timely screening.
Major Health Risks
Tobacco use (smoking & secondhand smoke): Leading cause; even light smoking increases risk.
Radon exposure: Naturally occurring gas and the second leading cause of lung cancer.
Occupational exposures: Asbestos, diesel exhaust, arsenic, chromium, and silica.
Air pollution: Fine particulate matter and pollutants can damage lung tissue.
Personal or family history: Prior or familial lung cancer increases risk.
Chronic lung diseases: COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or emphysema elevate susceptibility.
Genetic and environmental interactions: Gene mutations or environmental toxins may cause cancer in nonsmokers.
Benefits of Lung Cancer Screening
Lung cancer screening can detect cancer before symptoms develop when it’s most treatable.
Key Benefits
Early detection saves lives: Low-dose CT (LDCT) scans detect lung cancer at early, curable stages.
Improved treatment options: Early detection enables less invasive, more effective treatments.
Reduced anxiety through clarity: Screening offers peace of mind and proactive health steps.
Encourages healthier lifestyles: Screening motivates quitting smoking and reducing exposure.
Better prognosis and quality of life: Early detection means higher survival and preserved lung function.
Who Should Be Screened?
According to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), annual LDCT screening is recommended for adults who:
Are 50–80 years old, and
Have a 20 pack-year or more smoking history, and
Currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.
Take Action This November
Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk.
Encourage loved ones to get screened.
Support awareness campaigns and smoke-free environments.