November is Lung Cancer and COPD Awareness Month

November is Lung Cancer and COPD Awareness Month

It may be no coincidence that November is both Lung Cancer Awareness Month and COPD Awareness Month. Lung cancer and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) are two of the leading causes of death in America – and also among the most underappreciated. This November, the American Lung Association is shining a spotlight on these two deadly diseases, and what’s being done to reduce their burden on American lives and that of their loved ones. Two new pages on the American Lung Association website are now dedicated to raising awareness about COPD and lung cancer year round.

 

Lung Cancer – The Top Cancer Killer
Lung cancer is a tragic disease that takes a terrible toll on patients, as well as their loved ones. Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in both men and women in the United States. In fact, more people die from lung cancer than colon, breast and prostate cancer combined. The American Lung Association has long been the leader in the fight against lung cancer and is taking new steps to help both patients and their families. Learn more.

COPD – Overlooked Lung ThreatDid you know that COPD is the third leading cause of death in the U.S.? Or that 12 million Americans have been diagnosed with COPD, while an estimated 12 million more have it, but have not been diagnosed? If you don’t, that’s part of the problem! Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis – can be prevented and is treatable, but only if people know about it. As part of our commitment to lung health, the American Lung Association is working to raise awareness of this overlooked lung health threat. We have also created useful tools for COPD patients and partnered with others to help people with COPD live healthier, more active lives. Learn more.