Lung Cancer Awareness Month
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States and globally.
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States and globally. The month emphasizes the importance of early detection through screening, as lung cancer often shows no symptoms until it has progressed to later stages. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2025, approximately 226,650 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with lung cancer, and about 124,730 will die from the disease. Key risk factors include a history of smoking (accounting for about 90% of cases), exposure to radon gas, asbestos, secondhand smoke, and family history. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends annual low-dose CT screening for adults aged 50 to 80 with a 20 pack-year smoking history who have quit within the past 15 years. Events and initiatives across the country, including screenings, educational seminars, and community gatherings, are held throughout November to promote awareness, reduce stigma, and support those affected by the disease.