Doctor holding ribbon for lung cancer awareness

Beat the Odds Against Lung Cancer

Indiana has one of the highest rates of lung cancer in the nation. Over 7,000 Hoosiers are diagnosed with the disease each year, so it’s crucial to know the warning signs and risks associated with it.

Understand the Risks of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer kills 433 Americans every day. The disease is twice as deadly as breast cancer in women, and three times as deadly as colon cancer in men. There’s no denying the link between smoking and lung cancer — smokers are up to 30 times more likely to be diagnosed than non-smokers.

You’re still at risk long after you quit smoking, but the statistics look better the longer you stay nicotine-free. Your risk of lung cancer starts to lower ten years after your last cigarette, but you’re only at half the risk of a regular smoker. It takes a full twenty years for your lungs to fully recover and to put you on even ground with non-smokers.

Know the Symptoms of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer shares symptoms with a lot of other diseases and conditions. If your voice is hoarse or you find it hard to catch your breath it’s not necessarily serious, but keep an eye out if the symptoms persist. If you have chest pain or cough up blood — even a little bit — see your doctor as soon as possible.

You might experience these symptoms even if you’re not a smoker. Unfortunately, second-hand smoke can do real damage your lungs. If you grew up in a smoking household or spend a lot of time with friends while they’re smoking, it’s worth having a conversation with your doctor.

Get a Plan Against Lung Cancer

If you think you’re at risk for lung cancer, Community can help. Our health risk assessment is a quick and easy way to get answers about your health.

Take Lung Cancer Quiz

The assessment asks questions about your lifestyle to see if you should schedule a lung screening. You’ll be asked about your history with smoking, like what kind of tobacco you’ve used and how long it’s been since you used it. You’ll also answer some questions about your family’s history with smoking-related cancers, and if you’ve been exposed to other types of air pollution.

Once you’ve finished the health risk assessment, Community will send you personalized details on your risk for lung cancer. You’ll be given tips on how you can protect your health, and whether or not you should see a doctor for a screening.

If you’re at risk, yearly testing can find lung cancer early and save your life.