ST. CHARLES – November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month and State Representative Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva) is encouraging 65th District constituents to take steps to prevent lung cancer and learn more about this disease. Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer for both men and women in the United States and the American Lung Association states that screening high risk individuals has the potential to improve survival rates dramatically.
“Too many lives have been lost to lung cancer, and so many are impacted by it across Illinois,” said Rep. Ugaste. “Illinoisans who would like to quit smoking can call 1-866-QUIT-YES or visit QuitYes.org to take this major step to prevent lung cancer.”
According to the American Lung Association, the number one cause of lung cancer is smoking, causing about 90% of these cases, followed by radon exposure. Homes can also be tested for radon with test kits sold at hardware stores; one in 15 U.S. homes is subject to radon exposure. Other causes include hazardous chemical exposure, particle pollution, and genetic factors. If others in your family have or ever had lung cancer, it’s important to mention it to your doctor.
Individuals can find more information, including stories, screening information, treatment, and tips on living with lung cancer at https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/lung-cancer.