Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, with the American Cancer Society estimating over 226,000 new cases this year.¹ Although detection and treatment options have improved, survival outcomes still rely largely on how early the disease is identified, as well as addressing risk factors like tobacco use, which remains the number-one cause of preventable cancer deaths. Cigarette smoking is responsible for about 80% to 90% of all lung cancer deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.²

Reducing tobacco use through prevention and cessation remains one of the most powerful ways to lower lung cancer risk. Taking the leap to quit smoking can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Whittier Street Health Center, we’re committed to helping our patients take control of their lung health and establish healthier habits for long-term well-being. Through our partnership with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we provide free tobacco cessation counseling with individualized support, education, and encouragement for anyone who would like to quit smoking. We also offer free lung cancer screenings and referrals to ensure that patients have access to early detection and follow-up care.

This Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Whittier encourages everyone to take a proactive step toward better lung health, whether that means getting screened, seeking help to quit smoking, or starting a conversation with your healthcare provider about these options. Together, we can create a healthier, cancer-free future for our community. To learn more about our smoking cessation program and other cancer prevention services, please call (617) 989-3267.

References

1. American Cancer Society. (2025, February 5). Key statistics for lung cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/lung-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Lung Cancer Risk Factors. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/lung-cancer/risk-factors/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/basic_info/risk_factors.htm