American Lung Association: 7 Actions for Lung Cancer Action Week

This week, the American Lung Association raising awareness of lung cancer and encouraging Louisiana residents to take action to end the disease. The annual Lung Cancer Action Week and Turquoise Takeover celebration (May 6-12) unites America to stand together against lung cancer.

In commemoration, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has issued a proclamation designating Lung Cancer Action Week throughout the state of Louisiana. The proclamation encourages all residents of Louisiana to learn more about lung cancer, risk factors and early detection and take action.

The American Lung Association shares seven actions people can take this week to help in efforts to end lung cancer:

1. Wear turquoise between May 6 and 12 and have conversations to raise awareness
2. Create a DIY Fundraiser to benefit those affected by lung cancer
3. Share your lung cancer story to raise awareness and inspire hope
4. Get screened for lung cancer if you are eligible
5. Test your home for radon
6. Learn about the latest educational information on lung cancer
7. Donate to help achieve a world free of lung cancer

“In 2024 alone, it is estimated that more than 3,700 people in Louisiana will be diagnosed with lung cancer. But there is hope. We have seen incredible advancements in early diagnosis, treatment and survivorship from lung cancer. In fact, the five-year survival rate has increased by over 50% in the past decade,” said Eric Weinzettle, Director of Advocacy for the American Lung Association. “Raising awareness and funds for lung cancer is more important than ever. We encourage our community to get involved in Turquoise Takeover.”

2024 marks the 10th anniversary of the Lung Association’s movement to end lung cancer—LUNG FORCE. Through education, advocacy and research, LUNG FORCE is working to ensure that fewer people are diagnosed and those living with the disease live longer. Since 2014, LUNG FORCE has raised more than $30 million for lifesaving lung cancer research, expanding its research commitment by 286%.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths, and about every two minutes, someone is diagnosed with the disease. Thankfully, survival rates of lung cancer have significantly increased in the last 10 years. This encouraging trend has been aided by improved early detection of the disease through lung cancer screening and advancements in research, which have resulted in more than 50 new lung cancer treatments approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 2016.

Visit LUNGFORCE.org to learn how you can get involved during Lung Cancer Action Week and join the effort to end lung cancer.