Lung Cancer Awareness Month 2024

Lung Cancer Awareness Month 2024

Get Involved: LCAM 2024

This November, join a global movement dedicated to revolutionizing lung cancer survival rates during Lung Cancer Awareness Month (LCAM). Together, we can spark essential conversations and emphasize the vital role of early detection, effective treatments, and innovative research.
Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Our Mission Statement:

  • Empower Research: Advocate for increased public support to boost research funding and expand screening initiatives. Together, we can improve treatment options for those affected by lung cancer.
  • Cultivate Global Partnerships: Collaborate with patient advocacy groups, healthcare NGOs, and national health ministries. United, we can create a powerful network in the fight against lung cancer.
  • Raise Awareness: Educate both healthcare professionals and the public on the life-saving benefits of early detection. Let’s empower individuals to take proactive steps in their health journey.

Adequate research funding is key to furthering developments in lung cancer treatment. 100% of your donation goes directly to the IASLC's Research grants program. For over 20 years, the IASLC has awarded over 14 million dollars to support research that prevents, detects, and treats lung cancer.

Show your support - raise awareness about lung cancer, honor those facing a diagnosis, and be part of the research that will lead to conquering lung and other thoracic cancers worldwide in the 21st Century.

Join us this November to make a tangible impact in the fight against lung cancer. Together, we can change lives and improve outcomes for patients around the globe!

Patients & Advocates Share Their Story

Denise Cutlip - Share Your Story

Denise Cutlip: Her Inspiring Lung Cancer Journey

Denise, a 14-year stage IV lung cancer survivor, was given just 10-15 months. But she chose to live life fully, educate herself, and support research that drives progress. Thanks to clinical trials, she's here today to share her story and encourage others to join the IASLC STARS program and make a difference in lung cancer research. 

Barry Nelson - Share Your Story

Barry Nelson, a lung cancer survivor and passionate advocate

Barry’s journey with cancer and his family's history have inspired him to give back and uplift others. Barry says, “If you want to make a difference with your voice, don’t sit back and wait for someone to tap you on the shoulder. Reach out to organizations—they’re looking for people who have heart and are committed to making a difference!”

Bev Moir - Share Your Story

Bev Moir: A Powerful Advocate in the Fight Against Lung Cancer

Bev is a patient with Stage 4 lung cancer, is a passionate Patient Resource Advocate (PRA) who is using her voice to make a difference. Bev's dedication to speaking up for all patients reminds us that we are stronger together in this fight. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of advocacy, hope, and community.

Dave Bjork - Share Your Story

Dave Bjork: Podcaster, Lung Cancer Survivor & Advocate

"Research Matters!" says Dave Bjork, urging others to join the #IASLC STARS Scholar program. As a lung cancer survivor, Dave highlights the benefits of becoming a STARS Scholar—gaining mentorship, building camaraderie, and ensuring the patient voice shapes drug development. Ready to make a difference? Join the movement!

Emily Vananzi - Share Your Story

Emily Venanzi: Scientist, 7-Year ALK+ Survivor & STARS Scholar

As an immunology scientist and 7-year ALK-positive lung cancer survivor, Emily Venanzi got involved in advocacy to push lung cancer research forward. Her journey shows the power of combining science with personal experience. Ready to make a difference? Get involved today!

STARS Spotlight on Lung Cancer

Jim Pantelas STARS Spotlight

Breaking Stigma, Building Hope: Jim's Lung Cancer Advocacy Journey

Jim Pantelas, a 19-year lung cancer survivor and former smoker, shares his inspiring journey and emphasizes the importance of advocacy in the fight against lung cancer. “Everyone’s voice is needed in this fight,” Jim reminds us. Whether you're a survivor, caregiver, healthcare professional, or advocate, your story can make a difference! Join us durign #LCAM24 in amplifying diverse voices and experiences. Together, we can break the stigma, foster understanding, and create a stronger, more compassionate community.

Anita McGrath - STARS Spotlight

Anita McGrath: Championing Change for Lung Cancer Access and Advocacy

Anita McGrath, a non-small cell lung cancer patient from Brisbane, Australia, is committed to making a difference. Through her work with the STARS program, she advocates for better access to targeted therapies across Australia and shares her journey to empower others. Thank you, Anita, for being a voice for the lung cancer community!

Prakaitip Susilparat STARS Spotlight

Dr. Prakaitip Susilparat: A Personal Journey of Lung Cancer Advocacy and Strength

Her advocacy is personal—her mother was diagnosed with Stage 4 Adenocarcinoma Lung Cancer with an EGFR mutation. Using social media to share their journey, she connected with others and found strength in community. Watch the video to learn more about her impactful work in lung cancer advocacy.

Matthew Koebbe STARS Spotlight

Matthew Koebbe: Championing Lung Cancer Advocacy and Enhancing Patient Care

Matthew Koebbe’s advocacy journey began when he experienced side effects from his lung cancer treatments. This sparked a deeper dive into research and engagement with the STARS PRA program. Through his work, he’s helping amplify patient voices and improve quality of life in lung cancer care.

Angeline Low STARS Spotlight

Angeline Low: Celebrating Survival and Amplifying Lung Cancer Awareness

Angeline Low is not just a survivor—she’s a powerful voice for lung cancer awareness and advocacy! In her heartfelt message, she proclaims, “I’m alive! Thank you.” Angeline's journey highlights the resilience and strength of those affected by lung cancer, reminding us all of the importance of support, awareness, and community. Watch her inspiring story and join us in amplifying the voices of lung cancer survivors!

#LCAM24 Shareable Lung Cancer Facts

LCAM Downloadable Graphics

Share facts about lung cancer to increase awareness with our downloadable fact cards!

Lung Cancer Considered Podcasts

The Power of Movement: Exercise and Lung Cancer

The Power of Movement: Exercise and Lung Cancer

In this episode of Lung Cancer Considered, host Dr. Narjust Florez leads a discussion about the role exercise plays in complementing cancer treatment and how clinicians can work with patients to add regular exercise to their daily regimen.

LCC in Hindi: Contemporary Issues in Lung Cancer Care

LCC in Hindi: Contemporary Issues in Lung Cancer Care

In this episode of Lung Cancer Considered, Dr. Aakash Desai moderates a discussion in Hindi on the management of non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer in the Indian context. The group discusses advances in immunotherapy in resectable NSCLC and other new treatments on the horizon.

Virtual Tumor Board: Metastatic Squamous NSCLC

Virtual Tumor Board

In this virtual tumor board episode of Lung Cancer Considered, host Dr. Stephen Liu leads a discussion on the management of a patient with metastatic squamous NSCLC. Listen to the episode to learn how the guests would approach this case.

Recognizing outstanding patient care in the field of thoracic malignancies

The 2024 IASLC Cancer Care Team Award recognizes extraordinary patient care in the field of thoracic malignancies. Awardees are nominated by patients and their loved ones. 

LCAM News, Stories, and Reports

IASLC Staging Project for the 9th Edition of the Tumor, Node, Metastasis (TNM)

9th Edition Lung Cancer Staging Recommendations to be Explained

  

Isaac Joseph

Empowering Change and Amplifying Impact Through Research Advocacy Activities

  

Patient Perspective: Exercise Prescriptions Needed for Lung Cancer Patients

   

Updated Biomarker Survey Results Show Paradigm Shift As More Respondents Now Consider Testing a “Must Have”

 

 

LDCT Graphic

Current & Future Perspectives on CT Screening for Lung Cancer: A Roadmap From 2023 to 2027 From the IASLC

 

 

LUNG CANCER WORLDWIDE ARTICLES

Lung Cancer in Nigeria

Nigeria Map

Lung cancer statistics in Nigeria remain estimates, as currently available statistics are mainly extrapolated from institution-based sources rather than pooled population-based data. In addition, there is no fool-proof cancer registry in Nigeria, w/the persistence of technical & financial challenges & methodological limitations.

Lung Cancer in Indonesia

LC in Indonesia graphic

Indonesia has the world’s 4th largest population & ranks as the 5th largest country in Asia. It increased its life expectancy from 68.68 years in 2010 to 72.32 years in 2023, which can be attributed to many recent economic advances. But according to data from the Ministry of Health, noninfectious diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, & noninfectious lung diseases are among the top 3 causes of morbidity & mortality.

Lung Cancer Screening in Asia: An Expert Consensus Report

Asia Consensus Report graphic

Did you know, the incidence & mortality of lung cancer are highest in Asia compared w/Europe & USA, w/the incidence & mortality rates being 34.4 & 28.1 per 100,000 respectively in East Asia. Diagnosing lung cancer at early stages makes the disease amenable to curative treatment & reduces mortality.

Lung Cancer in Romania

LC in Romania graphic

This JTO article highlights the challenges and progress in lung cancer care in Romania. With high incidence and late-stage diagnoses, efforts are underway to improve screening, access to care, and patient outcomes. Learn more about Romania’s lung cancer landscape, including epidemiology, treatment strategies, and public health initiatives.

Lung Cancer in the Czech Republic

Czech Republic LCAM graphic

The Czech Republic has made strides in tobacco control, lung cancer prevention, and treatment. However, challenges remain. Despite a decline in smoking rates, 25% of the population still smokes, and more education and antismoking campaigns are needed. One major challenge: the lengthy process of drug pricing and reimbursement. While drug availability is slightly above the EU average, it still lags behind countries like Germany. Faster access to novel therapies will help improve survival rates and quality of life for lung cancer patients.

Lung Cancer in Armenia

Armenia Graphic

Armenia faces significant challenges in lung cancer care, with 62% of patients diagnosed at stage IV and 85% of healthcare costs paid out-of-pocket. While initiatives like Basic Benefit Packages and an upcoming Universal Health Insurance plan aim to improve access, gaps remain. High smoking rates, especially among men (51%), drive the burden of disease, despite expanded tobacco control measures. Progress has been made with nonprofits providing free targeted therapies and the recent development of palliative care facilities.

Lung Cancer in Ghana

Ghana Referral Pattern pic

In Ghana, lung cancer is a growing concern, with 88% of cases diagnosed at advanced stages. The healthcare system, while improving, faces challenges due to limited access to cancer care, especially in rural areas. The National Health Insurance Scheme covers only basic care, leaving many patients to pay out-of-pocket for treatments, often resulting in late diagnoses. Smoking is a key risk factor, but increasing lung cancer cases are also being seen among nonsmokers, possibly due to environmental factors like biomass fuel use. Despite these challenges, advancements in personalized care and collaborations with global cancer centers offer hope for better outcomes in the future.

Lung Cancer in Pakistan

LC in Pakistan

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in men and third overall in Pakistan, with smoking being a major risk factor. Although screening is available privately, there is no national program, and the healthcare system struggles with diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care. Rising lung cancer rates highlight the need for better public awareness, infrastructure, and training.

To explore and read all 55 Lung Cancer Worldwide Editorials, visit our JTO Collection at www.jto.org/lung_cancer.

 

For additional JTO Lung Cancer Awareness Month Articles, visit the JTO collection at www.jto.org/jtho-lung-cancer-awareness-month.

Resources for Caregivers

Didn't see your favorite resource for caregivers listed above? Submit other resources here advocacy@iaslc.org

Every day 162 women die from the disease. This “hidden” women’s cancer is the least funded cancer in terms of research dollars per death of all the major cancers, and one of the only cancers where patients are routinely blamed as responsible for their condition.

Navigating lung cancer treatment options can be overwhelming as new treatments continue to emerge. GO2 for Lung Cancer’s LungMATCH program guides you through your journey with personalized treatment navigation and clinical trial matching. Our expert navigators clarify your options, assist with biomarker testing, connect you to clinical trials, and provide ongoing support throughout your treatment. We are committed to ensuring you are informed and empowered at every step.

To connect with our LungMATCH team, call 800-298-2436, email support@go2.org.

Financial assistance is one of the major concerns that comes with a lung cancer diagnosis. While national resources are limited, local support can make a big difference. Start by exploring your insurance benefits through your employer or insurance company. Social workers at hospitals can also guide you to local financial resources. Don’t hesitate to search online for local cancer assistance programs or use platforms like GoFundMe to create fundraisers. Additionally, check with pharmaceutical companies for financial aid programs if you're using brand-name medications. For more resources, CancerCare’s A Helping Hand database is a great tool to find assistance.

The GO2 for Lung Cancer offers free one-on-one support, educational materials, guidance on screening, treatment and clinical trial information, referrals and other resources to help you and your loved ones. Our trained and compassionate team is standing by to provide a tailored approach to meet your needs and help guide you every step of the way.

  • Lung Cancer Information & Support: Contact the GO2 for Lung Cancer HelpLine at 1-800-298-2436support@go2.org or  submit your question in the form below.
  • Team members are available Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (ET).
White House

America's Proclamation on National Lung Cancer Awareness Month, 2024

During National Lung Cancer Awareness Month, we strengthen our commitment to standing by all those facing lung cancer and their families, and we ensure they have access to the care they need.  We also rededicate ourselves to spreading awareness about lung cancer and working to end cancer as we know it, in order to save more lives. We thank the researchers searching for answers and the medical professionals who are working tirelessly to care for those with lung cancer, and we recommit to ending cancer as we know it.

It's #LCAM24! This is your opportunity to "Share Your Story" about your journey as a lung cancer patient advocate, to share what inspired you to get involved in this work, and to share a significant moment in your advocacy journey so far. Please share a short video about the above-referenced topics with the hope of inspiring and encouraging others who are part of the lung cancer community.
Thank you for helping the IASLC generate awareness globally!