American Lung Association and the Ad Council Unveil New PSAs Highlighting the Significance of Early Detection for Lung Cancer

This World Cancer Day, new PSAs ask the question, “If your lungs could talk, what would they say?" to encourage those eligible to get screened for lung cancer

Early detection is essential when it comes to lung cancer, and early diagnosis can save lives. Today, the American Lung Association and the Ad Council are helping to address the nation’s leading cause of cancer deaths. As part of the ongoing Saved By The Scan campaign and timed to World Cancer Day, the organization, together with the Ad Council and creative agency Hill Holliday, released new public service advertisements (PSAs), “If Your Lungs Could Talk,” in an effort to reach eligible current and former smokers about the importance of lifesaving lung cancer screening. 

According to the American Lung Association's 2024 "State of Lung Cancer" report, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, and only 16% of people at high risk have been screened. The report also highlights that annual low-dose CT scans can reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20%; emphasizing the need to ensure that eligible high-risk individuals are aware of their risk for lung cancer and feel empowered to talk to their doctor.

“While lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., there is hope. Lung cancer screening has played a critical role in the 44% increase in the lung cancer survival rate over the past decade,” said American Lung Association President and CEO Harold Wimmer. “This new campaign will continue to raise critical awareness about lifesaving screening and encourage more individuals to take action.”

Since its inception, the Saved By The Scan campaign continues to show significant impact with over 1.3 million Americans having taken the Saved By The Scan screening eligibility quiz to determine if they are at high risk for lung cancer. The campaign has exhibited significant increases across key measures since its launch. Among individuals eligible for lung cancer screening, there was a significant increase in those who discussed the scan with their healthcare provider, from 27% in 2021 to 43% this year. Likewise, individuals who spoke with their healthcare provider and underwent the scan increased significantly, from 21% in 2021 to 35% in 2024. 

“By inspiring people to talk with their doctor about lung cancer screenings, we can offer hope for early detection, effective treatment and ultimately save lives,” said Heidi Arthur, chief campaign development officer for the Ad Council. “We are proud to partner with the American Lung Association and Hill Holliday to promote this initiative, using the power of creativity -- and a touch of humor -- to remind former smokers and other high-risk individuals of the importance of getting screened.” 

The new PSAs bring to life a conversation between a former smoker and the personifications of their lungs, using humor to educate and encourage those who, even after they quit smoking, may still be at risk for lung cancer. The creative highlights the urgency of lung cancer screening since symptoms often appear late, stressing the importance of early detection. The PSAs will appear nationwide across broadcast, print, radio, out-of-home, digital banners and social media in donated media time and space.

“Our disarming new campaign shows former smokers hearing the potentially life-saving message about the importance of early detection in lung cancer directly from the source: their lungs,” said Dave Weist, Chief Creative Officer, Hill Holliday.  “We are honored to continue our longstanding collaboration with the American Lung Association and the Ad Council to support the important and impactful ‘Saved by the Scan’ campaign.”

To learn more and check if you qualify for a low-dose CT scan, visit SavedByTheScan.org. For media interested in scheduling an interview with a lung cancer expert, contact Jill Dale at 312-940-7001 or [email protected].

For more information, contact:

Jill Dale
312-940-7001
[email protected]

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