LUNG FORCE Heroes from Every State Join American Lung Association to Advocate for Lung Cancer Patients on Capitol Hill

WHAT: Through its LUNG FORCE initiative, the American Lung Association is hosting its third annual LUNG FORCE Advocacy Day, bringing together "LUNG FORCE Heroes" – those personally impacted by lung cancer – from all 50 states to advocate for lung cancer patients everywhere. These advocates are pushing for increased research funding at the National Institutes of Health that will result in better treatments and improved methods of early detection for lung cancer. They will also educate members about the importance of quality and affordable healthcare and ask them to pass bipartisan legislation that will help stabilize the health insurance marketplaces and protect patients with pre-existing conditions from a harmful proposed rule that would allow short-term limited duration plans to be expanded, undermining patient protections.

Hear first-hand how these actions will impact the lives of people with and at risk for lung cancer. Media interviews with LUNG FORCE Heroes and policy experts will be available by request. Photo opportunities will be available.

WHEN/WHERE: The American Lung Association and LUNG FORCE Heroes will take to Capitol Hill on Wednesday, March 14 to meet with members of Congress.

HOW: To schedule an interview with a LUNG FORCE Hero, lung cancer medical or policy expert, contact Allison MacMunn at [email protected] or 312-801-7628.

WHY:

• Lung cancer is the #1 cancer killer of women and men in our country.
• In 2018, 234,030 Americans will be diagnosed with lung cancer.
• Only 16 percent of people are diagnosed at an early stage, when the disease is more likely to be curable.
• Better treatment options that improve survival are needed, as well as quality, affordable healthcare, so lung cancer patients can access these treatments.