Lung cancer causes more deaths each year than colon, breast and prostate cancers combined, accounting for 25% of all cancer deaths.1 It’s the most common cancer in men and the second most common cancer in women.2 The good news: there are now some lung cancers that can be cured.2 Plus, the number of new lung cancer cases may be dropping for three reasons: early detection, prompt treatment, and more people quitting smoking.1
Lung cancer develops when cells in the lungs grow abnormally into tumors, often caused by people breathing in toxins — which is why Lung Cancer Awareness Month is so important. Awareness of early screening and treatment for this dangerous disease can enable more people to support those with this condition, be there for friends and family trying to quit smoking or vaping, and help all of us work together to reduce the impacts of lung cancer.
At UnitedHealthcare Global, we want to help with awareness and prevention while providing positive paths forward. Participation in smoking cessation programmes and cancer screenings are important and can be coupled with resources through our plans for preventive care to help with early detection and multifaceted support. People diagnosed with lung cancer can access oncology treatment that comes with our health management programmes, which include clinical staff to help coordinate care with doctors and specialists.
Lung cancer causes 1.8 million deaths a year around the world,3 so this disease needs to be on everyone’s radar. Take advantage of this month to learn more about lung cancer prevention and treatment, take part in awareness-building activities, and donate to charities working to reduce the prevalence of this disease.
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Sources:
1: Lung cancer, UnitedHealthcare, 2022
2: Lung cancer statistics, World Cancer Research Fund International, 2022
3: World Lung Cancer Day shines a spotlight on a silent killer: air pollution, UICC, 2023