Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Observed in November, Lung Cancer Awareness Month focuses on early detection, prevention, research, and support for those affected by the disease that the American Cancer Society identifies as the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
Lung cancer affects all population groups across the country, but a disproportionate burden is placed on people living in underserved communities. The National Cancer Institute points to the following key disparities contributing to lung cancer outcome inequality:
· Later-stage diagnosis: People in underserved communities are often less likely to receive timely screening and treatment and more likely to be diagnosed after the cancer has already advanced.
· Lower access to treatment: Limited access to healthcare providers, transportation, and insurance coverage.
· Higher mortality rates: Certain racial and ethnic groups, in particular Black Americans, experience higher lung cancer death rates and poorer survival outcomes.
· Socioeconomic factors: Lower income and education levels are associated with worse cancer outcomes overall, including the above stated limited access to preventive measures, screening, and treatment services.
Beyond the social and systemic factors that contribute to unequal outcomes, one preventable cause continues to drive most lung cancer deaths – tobacco use. In fact, cigarette smoking is responsible for up to 90% of all lung cancer deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
At Whittier Street Health Center, we’re committed to helping our patients who smoke take the necessary steps to quit. Our Tobacco Treatment Program, provided through a partnership with the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, is located within the Frederica M. Williams Building at 1290 Tremont Street, Roxbury. The program offers individual tobacco cessation counseling and support for our patients, follow-up services, and assistance obtaining nicotine replacement cessation medications.. We also offer free lung cancer screenings and referrals so that patients have access to early detection and follow-up care.
To learn more about Whittier’s smoking cessation program, please call 617-989-3267.